In Praise of Slowness : Challenging the Cult of Speed (Plus)

Living on the edge of exhaustion, we are constantly reminded by our bodies and minds that the pace of life is spinning out of control. In Praise of Slowness traces the history of our increasingly breathless relationship with time, and tackles the consequences and conundrum of living in this accelerated culture of our own creation. Why are we always in such a rush? What is the cure for time-sickness? Is it possible, or even desirable, to slow down? Realizing the price we pay for unrelenting speed, people all over the world are reclaiming their time and slowing down the pace - and living happier, more productive and healthier lives as a result. A slow revolution is taking place.

But here you will find no Luddite calls to overthrow technology and seek a pre-industrial utopia. This is a modern revolution, championed by cell phone using, emailing lovers of sanity. The slow philosophy can be summed up in a single wordbalance. People are discovering energy and efficiency where you may have least expected in slowing down.

In this engaging and entertaining exploration, award-winning journalist and rehabilitated speedaholic Carl Honore details our perennial love affair with efficiency and speed in a perfect blend of anecdotal reportage, history and intellectual inquiry. In Praise of Slowness is the first comprehensive look at the worldwide slow movements making their way into the mainstream, in offices, factories, neighborhoods, kitchens, hospitals, concert halls, bedrooms, gyms and schools. Defining a movement whose time has finally come, this spirited manifesto will make you completely rethink your relationship with time.