Genius. With hints of madness and mystery; moral license and visionary force; the word suggests an almost otherworldly power: the power to create; to divine the secrets of the universe; even to destroy. Yet the notion of genius has been diluted in recent times. Today; rock stars; football coaches; and entrepreneurs are labeled ‘geniuses;' and the word is applied so widely that it has obscured the sense of special election and superhuman authority that long accompanied it.As acclaimed historian Darrin M. McMahon explains; the concept of genius has roots in antiquity; when men of prodigious insight were thought to possess—or to be possessed by—demons and gods. Adapted in the centuries that followed and applied to a variety of religious figures; including prophets; apostles; sorcerers; and saints; abiding notions of transcendent human power were invoked at the time of the Renaissance to explain the miraculous creativity of men like Leonardo and Michelangelo.Yet it was only in the eighteenth century that the genius was truly born; idolized as a new model of the highest human type. Assuming prominence in figures as varied as Newton and Napoleon; the modern genius emerged in tension with a growing belief in human equality. Contesting the notion that all are created equal; geniuses served to dramatize the exception of extraordinary individuals not governed by ordinary laws. The phenomenon of genius drew scientific scrutiny and extensive public commentary into the 20th century; but it also drew religious and political longings that could be abused. In the genius cult of the Nazis and the outpouring of reverence for the redemptive figure of Einstein; genius achieved both its apotheosis and its Armageddon.The first comprehensive history of this elusive concept; Divine Fury follows the fortunes of genius and geniuses through the ages down to the present day; showing how—despite its many permutations and recent democratization—genius remains a potent force in our lives; reflecting modern needs; hopes; and fears.
#69773 in Books Walsh Matt 2017-03-28 2017-03-28Original language:English 8.50 x .84 x 5.80l; .0 #File Name: 0451495055240 pagesThe Unholy Trinity Blocking the Left s Assault on Life Marriage and Gender
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Finally someone says the whole truthBy Blake JohnsonIn these days we're living in; it's so hard to find someone who will do that simple; yet ever so rare thing: tell the truth. But in today's society; truth has been tainted and smeared by all different colors and shades of lies. Thankfully; there are a few voices left trying to sort through the madness and bring is back to sanity. Matt Walsh is one of those people.In the Unholy Trinity; Matt expertly articulates the truth - biblical; conservative truths - and exposes the left for the evils they are championing. If you enjoy reading his blogs - which I read religiously - then you will love this book. This book will not only convict those on the left. It will also convict those on the supposed right who claim to share these values. If you're wanting to go through the motions and ignore life's difficult truths; this book is not for you. But if you're sick of the lies and sick of the madness; it's time to wake up and buy this wonderful book from a wonderful man.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great Read!By Dale R NelsonI just finished this book. I have been following Mr. Walsh on The Blaze for a couple of years now and love his focus on Christ. His combination of wit and truth makes reading this book fun; but I am really sad that this book is even needed. I feel his logic is sound and rooted in the truth of which God alone has given us. I am sure that liberals will feel attacked by this book; but I'm also sure that this is only because they don't have a leg to stand on to back up their claims. Most liberals don't want to have a civil debate; they seem to run on emotion only; at least that is what I've experienced. Thanks Matt for a reasonable and logical assessment of how and why liberalism is taking this country down the drain. I really don't understand how any Christian would ever think that abortion is ok with God. I think the Bible is clear. God created us for life; and Christ came to restore it for us! To take an innocent life for your own convenience is so repugnant to me and I believe to God. However; as the darkness continues to grow in our world; I for one; want to be one of the shining lights in the darkness! So; I will continue to worship and praise God with the breath in my lungs that God continually gives to me.147 of 167 people found the following review helpful. Matt Walsh is an amazing writer.By S. NapoliIf you filter the reviews here and check the box that says "verified purchases only" then suddenly all the 1 star reviews disappear. Matt Walsh is an amazing writer. He's witty; insightful; and brave enough to speak the truth in an unforgiving world. You may not always agree with all things he says; but you should certainly give what he says a chance.
