Socialism: A Very Short Introduction
Michael Newman 2005
E-Book: 187 English Pages
Publisher: OUP
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Today, most people think of socialism as an outdated ideology. In this Very Short Introduction, Michael Newman seeks to place the idea of socialism in a modern context for today’s readers. He explains socialist ideas in the framework of its historical evolution, from the French Revolution to the present day, and examines practical attempts to implement socialism.
Not just another history of socialist ideas, this book aims for a different approach that looks at practice as well as theory–centering on the contrast between Communism and Social Democracy. The relationship between socialism and notions of democracy, freedom, and equality is also discussed. Newman brings the subject entirely up to date by tackling contemporary forms of socialism. While the book’s focus is on Europe and the Soviet Union, it is set in a broader geographical context. Newman’s fresh approach to the subject enables the reader to re-evaluate socialism.
Review
`”well written and enjoyable to read.”‘
—Giles Bentley, Socialist Review
About the Author
Michael Newman is Director of the London European Research Center Faculty of Humanities and Teacher Education at the University of North London. He is the author of Democracy, Sovereignty and the European Union, Harold Laski–A Political Biography, and Socialism and European Unity.