Dougal Haston The Philosophy of Risk Book

The untimely death of Dougal Haston (1940-1977) in a freak avalanche robbed climbing of one of its most charismatic, controversial, and enigmatic figures. A man of extremes who managed to combine a hedonistic lifestyle with a career at the cutting edge of world mountaineering, Haston remains a figure whose deeds have inspired climbers worldwide. He also captured the imagination of the world far beyond that of the climbing fraternity — he had the looks of a young god and was exceptionally talented, egocentric, and obsessed with his chosen sport. Connor explores Haston's agonizing development: from his working-class background in the small Scottish village of Currie to his antiestablishment years at college and in Scottish climbing circles, to the nearly fatal accident that drove him abroad, his fearsome drinking and womanizing, and, eventually, fulfillment and peace. For all those who wonder what motivates men and women to risk their lives in the mountains, this intimate portrait of a driven, tortured personality provides many of the answers. 24 pages of color and black-and-white photographs are included in this definitive biography from Jeff Connor, which was shortlisted for the Boardman Tasker Prize for mountain literature.