Description

A bold exploration of the life and work of one of the world’s most influential – and controversial – thinkers, which brings Arendt’s ideas into urgent dialogue with our troubled present.

‘A rare gem’ SHAMI CHAKRABARTI

‘An absorbing new biography… Admirable’ ECONOMIST

‘Invigorating and insightful’ FINANCIAL TIMES

‘Exhilarating, brilliant and utterly original’ PHILIPPE SANDS

Hannah Arendt wrote about power and terror, exile and love, and above all about freedom. In place of the forces of darkness and tyranny, she pitched a politics of plurality, spontaneity and defiance. Loving the world, Arendt taught, meant finding the courage to protect it.

Written with passion and authority, We Are Free to Change the World calls on each of us to think our way, as Arendt did – unflinchingly, lovingly, and defiantly – through our own unpredictable times.

Publisher Review

An exhilarating, brilliant and utterly original read; an iconic 20th century figure brought to life in all her facets, splendours and complexities — Philippe Sands, author of East West Street Compelling and original * Observer * Invigorating and insightful… An exhilarating and thoroughly humanising portrait of one of the most important philosophers of the 20th century… With impressive clarity and infectious passion, she follows the currents of Arendt’s thought to a rousing conclusion * Financial Times * Erudite and passionate… A superb read — Maria Popova * The Marginalian * From Arendt’s life and work Stonebridge fashions a map for navigating our present-day struggles and concerns * Times Literary Supplement * An absorbing new biography… Stonebridge does an admirable job… She imagines her way into Arendt’s life, in places literally retracing her subject’s footsteps, sensing the climate and smelling the (typically smoke-filled) air in an effort of understanding * Economist *