Wicked Company : Freethinkers and Friendship in pre-Revolutionary Paris

Orion Publishing Co

Explore the vibrant intellectual world of pre-Revolutionary Paris with 'Wicked Company' by Philipp Blom. This captivating book delves into the lives and ideas of the freethinkers who gathered in Baron d'Holbach's salon, fostering debate and revolutionary thought from the 1750s to the 1770s. Discover the stories of influential figures like Denis Diderot, Adam Smith, and Benjamin Franklin as they challenged established norms. Blom expertly retraces the fortunes of this exceptional group, bringing their startling ideas and radical French Enlightenment—based on atheism, passion, and empathy—to life. Their compelling insights into society still resonate today, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary debates. Key Features: - Focuses on the intellectual and social circles of pre-Revolutionary Paris. - Highlights the contributions of prominent thinkers and their radical ideas. - Explores the clash between Enlightenment philosophies and opposing viewpoints. - Offers a deep dive into a largely forgotten, yet pivotal, historical period. Summary for search optimization: Wicked Company, Freethinkers, Friendship, Pre-Revolutionary Paris, Philipp Blom, Enlightenment, Diderot, Adam Smith, Benjamin Franklin, Baron d'Holbach's salon, radical ideas, intellectual history, European thought, Paperback, English, 384 pages, Orion Publishing.