A very interesting and thought provoking rebuttal. The concept of history as cyclical is also present in Walter M. Miller's majestic sci-fi novel "A Canticle for Leibowitz." I think that the "long defeat" and "long victory" need not be an "either or" dilemma but a "both and" synthesis is possible. From the perspective of a human lifetime, history may look like a long defeat, when it is really a series of repeated risings and fallings (as in "Leibowitz") until the final Unveiling ("Apocalypse") at the End of history. At some times in history it is best to make a tactical retreat from the World, like St. Benedict and the other founders of Western monasticism, only to advance in a counteroffensive at the right moment. I'm actually working on an article along these lines for another website. I've really enjoyed reading this discussion. Many thanks to both authors!
A very interesting and thought provoking rebuttal. The concept of history as cyclical is also present in Walter M. Miller's majestic sci-fi novel "A Canticle for Leibowitz." I think that the "long defeat" and "long victory" need not be an "either or" dilemma but a "both and" synthesis is possible. From the perspective of a human lifetime, history may look like a long defeat, when it is really a series of repeated risings and fallings (as in "Leibowitz") until the final Unveiling ("Apocalypse") at the End of history. At some times in history it is best to make a tactical retreat from the World, like St. Benedict and the other founders of Western monasticism, only to advance in a counteroffensive at the right moment. I'm actually working on an article along these lines for another website. I've really enjoyed reading this discussion. Many thanks to both authors!
Thanks Thomas! I have not read Leibowitz, but I'll look him up.
Here is the link to the novel. It really is a science fiction masterpiece. I hope you enjoy it! https://www.amazon.com/Canticle-Leibowitz-Walter-Miller-Jr/dp/0553273817