In his book, "The Revenge Of Geography," Robert D. Kaplan argues that rationalism and secularism have progressed to a point where contemporary society struggles to comprehend the profound experiences of historical figures like Phidippides. This loss of perspective prevents us from effectively grasping the motivations and impacts of various religious movements that challenge the principles established during the Enlightenment.

Kaplan emphasizes that this disconnect not only hinders our understanding of these movements but also leaves us vulnerable to their influence in today’s geopolitics. Recognizing and addressing the underlying cultural and historical contexts is crucial for defending against ideological reversals that threaten the social and political structures built on Enlightenment values.