I wrote an earlier post Fallen scholars about the issue of how we evaluate and respond to the work and ideas of scholars who have their own personal moral failings. When in the bookstore this week I encountered another case. You can buy a copy of Technological Slavery: the complete writings of Ted Kaczysnki, otherwise known as the Unabomber, who is currently in Federal Prison for killing three people.
The book points out that he receives none of the funds from the book sales; they go to the American Red Cross. It contains several endorsements from people who stress they do not endorse his violent acts but have to concede that some of his ideas have merits and should be engaged with.
You can read the complete text of Industrial society and its future online. Decide for yourself. There are thirteen references in the complete writings to Jacques Ellul whose ideas do have a resonance with Kaczynski.
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I too am fascinated and resonate with the words and thoughts of Jacques Ellul and his critique of the modern industrial/technological state and culture. Thanks for posting this. I look forward to reading the material you've posted.
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