The Interviews - Professor Ritchie Robertson on 'The Enlightenment and the Pursuit of Happiness'

Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast

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Embark on a journey through the corridors of history as Ritchie Robertson, a distinguished scholar in German literature and intellectual history, unravels the complexities of the Enlightenment era in his seminal work "The Enlightenment and the Pursuit of Happiness 1680 to 1790." Our insightful conversation peels back the layers of this transformative period, examining the nuanced relationship between Enlightenment thinking and religion, and the myriad of intellectual figures who championed reason while fostering a culture of happiness and freedom. Robertson's engaging narrative, drawn from the personal accounts of a varied readership, underscores the enduring relevance of these historical debates in today's quest for a just and enlightened society.
The tapestry of the Enlightenment is further enriched as we traverse the landscape of emotions and literature, scrutinizing the era's evolving attitudes towards gender, sexuality, and the societal role of the individual. Enlightening discussions on how literary giants like Shaftesbury and Rousseau navigated the interplay between reason and passion provides listeners with a fresh perspective on the depth of intellectual thought during this period. Robertson's analysis offers an intimate portrayal of the characters and dramas that defined Enlightenment literature, inviting us to consider how these narratives shaped contemporary views on human behavior and morality.
Concluding our exploration, we dissect the legacy of the Enlightenment, from the rationality of burgeoning bureaucratic systems to its impact on cultural diversity and the genre of travel literature. Robertson challenges us to rethink historical narratives, shining a light on the multifaceted and often misrepresented views of Enlightenment thinkers. His unique take on this well-trodden path through history is not only a testament to the value of diverse perspectives but also a clarion call for a re-examination of our own understanding of the pursuit of happiness. Join us for this captivating conversation that promises to ignite the intellect and inspire the heart.

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1. Exploring Enlightenment Through Conversations (00:00:00)

2. Enlightenment Authors and Ideas Explored (00:06:07)

3. Emotions and Literature in Enlightenment (00:20:32)

4. Enlightenment Practices and Social Reform (00:27:27)

5. Critique of Enlightenment and Bureaucracy (00:41:09)

6. Perspectives on the Enlightenment (00:51:46)