John Ralston Saul

John Ralston Saul

John Ralston Saul was born on June 19th, 1947

Full Name: John Ralston Saul
Born: June 19, 1947
Nationality: Canadian
Profession: Philosopher, Author
Notable Work: Voltaires Bastards
Awards: Governor Generals Award
Honors: Officer of the Order of Canada
Occupation: President, PEN International

A renowned philosopher and author, he critiques modern society, arguing that it has abandoned reason and morality, instead embracing a cult of expertise and managerialism. His works explore the intersection of politics, culture, and economics.

Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood

John Ralston Saul: The Visionary Canadian Thinker

A Champion of Freedom and Critic of Managerialism

John Ralston Saul is a Canadian writer, political philosopher, and public intellectual renowned for his thought-provoking writings on individualism, citizenship, and the public good. He is particularly recognized for his critiques of managerial societies and the confusion between leadership and managerialism.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 19, 1947, in Ottawa, Canada, Saul is the son of William Saul, an army officer, and a British mother with a long tradition of military service. Raised in Alberta and Manitoba, he became fluent in both French and English at a young age. Saul graduated from Oakville Trafalgar High School in Oakville, Ontario, and later attended McGill University in Montreal, where his father worked as a military adviser to the Canadian ambassador to NATO.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Saul's writing career spans over four decades, with a focus on exploring the nature of individualism, citizenship, and the role of freedom of speech and culture. Some of his notable works include:

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Saul's works are characterized by his commitment to the principles of individual freedom, democracy, and the importance of a vibrant public sphere. He is a strong advocate for the role of culture and education in shaping a more just and equitable society. Saul's philosophy is deeply rooted in his conviction that human beings have the capacity for self-awareness, creativity, and critical thinking, and that these qualities should be nurtured and celebrated.

Influence on Modern Society and Career Milestones

Saul's work has had a significant impact on modern society, inspiring a new generation of thinkers and visionaries. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field of political philosophy and his commitment to promoting the values of democracy and human rights. Some of his notable career milestones include:

Personal Life and Relationships

Saul is married to Adrienne Clarkson, the former Governor General of Canada, making him the Viceregal consort of Canada during her tenure from 1999 to 2005. He is also the co-founder and co-chair of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, a national charity promoting the inclusion of new citizens, and the co-founder and co-chair of 6 Degrees, a global forum for inclusion.

Legacy and Impact

John Ralston Saul's work has been translated into 25 languages and published in 36 countries, a testament to his global influence and reach. As a visionary thinker, he continues to inspire and challenge readers around the world, leaving a lasting legacy in the fields of political philosophy, literature, and human rights.

Timeline
1943
Born in Ottawa
John Ralston Saul was born on June 19, 1943, in Ottawa, Ontario. He grew up to be a Canadian philosopher and author.
1972
Published First Book
Saul published his first book, The Birds of Prey, in 1972.
1983
Published Voltaires Bastards
Saul published his book Voltaires Bastards: The Dictatorship of Reason in the West in 1983, which criticized modern Western philosophy.
1992
Published The Unconscious Civilization
Saul published his book The Unconscious Civilization in 1992, which won the Governor Generals Award for English-language non-fiction.
2009
Became President of PEN International
Saul became the President of PEN International in 2009, an organization that promotes freedom of expression and literature.
John Ralston Saul

John Ralston Saul Quiz

What is John Ralston Saul's primary critique of modern society?

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FAQ
What is John Ralston Sauls most famous book?
John Ralston Sauls most famous book is Voltaires Bastards, a critique of modern democracy and the rise of managerialism.
What is John Ralston Sauls philosophy?
John Ralston Sauls philosophy focuses on the importance of individual freedom and creativity, and the need to balance reason and emotion in human societies.
What awards has John Ralston Saul won?
John Ralston Saul has won several awards, including the Governor Generals Award for English-language non-fiction and the Pablo Neruda International Presidential Medal of Honour.
What is John Ralston Sauls view on democracy?
John Ralston Saul is critical of modern democracy, arguing that it has been hijacked by managerialism and technocracy, and that it needs to be rebalanced to prioritize individual freedom and creativity.
What is John Ralston Sauls most recent work?
John Ralston Sauls most recent work is The Comeback, a book that explores the rise of indigenous peoples in Canada and their role in shaping the countrys future.

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