Keywords

naïve, book review, rhetoric

Abstract

Naïve Readings is an enjoyable series of critical examinations of major historical texts written by a political historian who thinks he has discovered rhetorical analysis. On its dust jacket, Ralph Lerner’s latest book purports to offer “a new method of reading . . . a way toward deeper understanding of some of history’s most important—and most concealed—messages.” A tantalizing endorsement—one that befıts Lerner’s distinguished scholarly career. Lerner himself calls the book a “reconsideration” of “our current habits of reading” (2). So, we are led to expect a bold survey of the major thinkers he studies, from Franklin to Tocqueville to Maimonides (no female thinkers are discussed in the book).

Original Publication Citation

Crosby, Richard Benjamin. Naïve Readings: Reveilles Political and Philosophic by James Lerner. Invited book review for Rhetoric and Public Affairs 22.3 (Fall 2019)