Defining the literary canon

[chokhmah <chokhmah@xxxxxxxxxx>]

What books belong in a literary canon?

I have a book on my reading list, but I am not sure if it is worth
reading. The problem with this book is that it has inspired
well-documented acts of torture, terrorism, homicide, and other crimes
against humanity. It has, however, been a very influential book in
Western civilization.

I do not expect to find much, or any, truth in this book. It is part of
typical philosophy curricula because it touches on ethics, society,
justice, and truth. It arrives at all the wrong answers, but modern
academics have attempted to sanitize his writings.

Humanity would have been happier if the book had never been written.

If I am on a quest for truth and wisdom, as philosophy claims to do, I
will be disappointed with this book. I could approach the book as an
important cultural and historical artifact, but my goal has now shifted
into a seeker of error and lies.

If a literary canon is chosen based on social influence, then this book
should be read. By the same logic, however, the reading list ought to
prioritize other religious books like the Koran, whose influence is much
greater.

If a literary canon should be based on "truth and wisdom", then Plato
and Socrates should both be rejected, because The Republic directly laid
the blueprints for Italian fascism. If, however, the canon is based on
cultural influence, more influential religious works ought to be
studied. I do not see a 3rd possibility.

(Hint: the book I am considering is not Plato's Republic)

Would you read this book?

chokhmah