Beyond Civilisation: Humanity's Next Great Adventure

Admittedly, it is an immensely difficult area in which to speculate when civilization has resisted change for so long, and perhaps Quinn couldn't have gone much further in suggesting grounds for change short of suggesting mass terrorism. But I don't see this book as humanities saviour and was sadly dissappointed with his suggestions. I was also confused that he called himself a 'lover of civilization' and slightly angered when he told how he used advertising to make money.

It sometimes seems that Quinn would have no argument with society had our culture not been leading itself to catastrophe, where personally I do, so maybe this is why I was dissappointed. Saying this, Quinn is very apt at explaining his complex opinions and the beginning of this book has some fantastic historical information and a great explanation of 'memes'. The parts that carry on where Ishmael & TSOB are fantastic and leave you ever more convinced with the failings of our society.

If you're new to Quinn, start with Ishmael, if you're not, read this. But you'd probably be more effective in saving the world if you lend out your copy of Ishmael to your friends than attempting a 'Tribal Business Venture'


Inspiring ideas about the re-tribalisation of society.   September 27, 2000
 10 out of 10 found this review helpful

Easy to read and packed with ideas that make you see the world in a different way. Quinn speaks most effectively to those who feel civilisation is not what is should be. He explains that 'beyond civilisation' is a way of life and a way of making a living, giving examples to illustrate his points. He shows that saving the planet and changing the world is within our grasp. We don't have to vote or wait. We don't have to solve problems, just make happen what we want to happen, by walking away and going tribal. Above all, he presents a refreshingly positive perspective of Humanity and it's future; something we all need.

This book develops the ideas expressed in Quinn's other novels 'Ismael', 'My Ishmael' and 'Story of B'. While those are concerned with the success of tribal living and philosophy, 'Beyond Civilisation' is more of a practical manual. It is written as a series of notes to stimulate those who were inspired by his previous work, but still asked; "what should I do?" Those books are well recommended, but previous knowledge is not needed to be inspired by 'Beyond Civilisation' and the breadth of Quinn's vision.