MAY MAN TREVAILS

by Erich Fromm ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

Erich Fromm considers the policy of nuclear deterrence in this challenging appraisal of the world problem. His central theme is that the policy of the deterrent will not ensure and will most likely destroy civilization; even if it were to preserve peace, its psychological and physical demands will certainly destroy democracy. He suggests that the first stop in a nuclear cataclysm and preserving democracy is to agree on universal, controlled disarmament. The United States must simultaneously arrive at an understanding with the Soviets based on an acceptance of the existing possessions of the two blocks. Mr. Fromm's doctrine is based on two premises. The assumptions on which our policy of deterrence is based are untrue: the Soviet Union is not a revolutionary state but a conversative state managerial society whose needs are best met by peace and a reduction in the armaments burden. Secondly, the answer to the Communist challenge is the development of a system that can satisfy the needs of man better than Communism does, and not the nuclear deterrent. The most original sections of the author's book are those in which he considers the problems of China and Germany in the area of nuclear deterrence, and in his chapter on the meaning and function of communist ideology, in which he convincingly argues that words and ""doublethink"" have blinded us to political realities. No one can henceforth discuss the problem of world peace without having read this lucid exposition by one of the most stimulating political and social critics of our time. An intelligent and masterful analysis of the problem, assuredly controversial.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1961

Categories: NONFICTION