In «Facts for Everybody: An Encyclop√¶dia of Useful Knowledge," Robert Kemp Philp presents an ambitious compendium that seeks to democratize information by offering a wide-ranging collection of facts across various disciplines. Philp's literary style is characterized by clarity and accessibility, making complex topics approachable for the general reader. Contextually, the work emerges from the 19th-century surge in the encyclopedic tradition, reflecting a growing desire for self-education among the burgeoning middle class, as well as a commitment to the Enlightenment values of reason and empirical inquiry. Robert Kemp Philp, a Scottish writer and educational reformer, dedicated his career to the advancement of knowledge among all social classes. His background in teaching and his belief in the transformative power of education significantly influenced his writing. By synthesizing diverse knowledge areas'Äîfrom science to history'ÄîPhilp sought to empower readers with the tools to understand and engage with the world around them, ensuring that useful knowledge was accessible to all, not just the elite. “Facts for Everybody” is highly recommended for readers seeking to broaden their intellectual horizons and cultivate a sense of curiosity about the world. It serves as a valuable reference for students, educators, and lifelong learners alike, inviting them to explore the expansive tapestry of human knowledge and find inspiration in the facts that define our shared reality.
Knowledge is nothing more than the comprehension of Fact; well, therefore, may it be said that knowledge is power,—for he who knows the most of what is, must be able to make the best use of it.