Events of the past two decades have challenged many of the fundamental beliefs, institutions, and values of modern western culture–the culture of progress. Are science and technology really progressive and beneficial? Have they led to the enhancement of welfare, greater hapiness, and moral immprovement? I s the continued growth of material productivity possible? Desirable? Are the institutions of progress viable?

Progress and Its Discontents assembles the views on progress of some of America’s leading humanists, scientists, and social scientists. Citing disappointed expectations of progress in spheres from science to morals and politics, and the many problems created or left untouched by progress, the editors conclude that the term no longer refers to an inevitable sequence of improvements but rather to an aspiration and compelling obligation.