Ritchie Robertson. The Enlightenment: The Pursuit of Happiness, 1680-1790. New York City: Harper, 2020.

Robertson gives an overview of the Enlightenment era and the shifting human purpose to that of the pursuit of happiness. The author provides a thorough introduction to the period by offering something of a history and reader mix. Robertson’s scope is fairly broad, covering religious, philosophical, literary, artistic, scientific, and political contributions.

I do not have a strong background in Enlightenment thinking and history, yet Robertson did a good job providing explanations and making the texts accessible. With my background being primarily in reading Orthodox, Protestant theology, I do not think the author’s choice of references are the best. Nevertheless, the author provokes me to read further and better understand the era and undercurrents of thought. I would recommend this volume to others interested in an overview of the period and a launching point into which texts to further study.

This book presents readings of many key Enlightenment texts. Answering the question 'what is Enlightenment?' Kant famously urged men and women above all to use their own understanding. Robertson shows how the thinkers of the Enlightenment did just that, seeking more understanding of humanity in which reason is balanced with emotion and sensibility. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!