Turn to Empire

Discover the complexities of European thought in "Turn to Empire" by Jennifer Pitts, published by Princeton University Press in 2006. This compelling 400-page paperback delves into the mid-nineteenth century, a pivotal time when notable British and French liberal thinkers championed the conquest of non-European societies. Pitts meticulously explores how this shift in ideology revealed an increasing sense of civilizational self-assurance and a less nuanced understanding of human progress—one that became intolerant of cultural differences. Through a critical lens, "Turn to Empire" uncovers the philosophical justifications that drove imperial expansion and examines their lasting implications on political history. Perfect for scholars and history enthusiasts alike, this book is essential for anyone interested in the intersections of political philosophy, European history, and the ongoing conversations around colonization and independence.