One review on 23 Nov 2025

First Published: 2025

Non-Fiction

Against the Machine

On the Unmaking of Humanity

Author: Paul Kingsnorth 

synopsis extract: The Machine is what others call The System, or Global Capitalism etc.. ...

Publisher:
Penguin
Date first read: Sun 23rd Nov 2025

Format:   Hardback

Catalogued: 25th Nov 2025

Synopsis

The Machine is what others call The System, or Global Capitalism etc.. Toxic and killing us with our connivance. Drawing on a fairly wide range of sources he discusses how, and possibly why, it has emerged, and starts to look for a way out.

Ultimately he doesn't advocate armed struggle, but goes for individuals working to live on the margins and ultimately outside the system. Living a good life at the level of the individual. Becoming Indigenous in the place where you are. Being prepared to ultimately be excluded but staying below the threat radar to build a life which re-integrates human life into the web of life.

Reviews

Another really important book

by rogerco on Sun 23rd Nov 2025.

Very powerful argument for continuing the slow opt-out. Disengaging as far as possible from the machine. Rediscovering one's roots. Past, Place, People, and Prayer. The last meaning the re-connection with the spiritual and non-material realms.