THE NATURE OF COMMUNISM

A brilliant and authoritative interpretation of the nature of Communism and its development throughout the world, with particular emphasis on Russia. The author has succeeded in developing a realistic working definition of the Communist movement that will enable the reader to see Communism and the situation in which it operates with clarity and mature understanding. He examines the evolution from orthodox Marxism in theory to militaristic industrialism and bureaucratic managerialism in practice, and is careful to point out that the Marxian philosophy still plays an important role to the extent that it justifies power, sustains group consciousness, and expresses the group's commitment to the faith. In the succeeding chapters, the author analyzes the main forces which have contributed to the shaping of Communism--Communism as a creature of the Russian revolution, as a party conspiracy, as a struggle for world power, as a product of Russian history, as a rebellion against the West, as a form of the industrial revolution, as a totalitarian society, and as a secular faith. A book worthy of attention and recommended for both the general reader and undergraduate.