Socialism: A Very Short Introduction

Many people now think of socialism as an outdated ideology. In this Very Short Introduction, Michael Newman seeks to contextualise it, explaining the evolution of socialist ideas from the French Revolution to the present day, and examining why past attempts to implement socialism might have failed. This fresh approach offers a unique understanding of both the theory and practice involved, and how closely the two are related. In addition to providing readers with a strong sense of socialism's relevance in today's world, the author emphasises the inevitable close ties between socialism and notions of democracy, freedom, and equality.

“'"well written and enjoyable to read."'Giles Bentley, Socialist Review”

`"well written and enjoyable to read."' Giles Bentley, Socialist Review

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.

What is socialism? Does it have a future, or has it become an outdated ideology in the 21st century? Michael Newman examines and explains the successes and failures of modern socialism by taking an international perspective -- ranging from communism in Cuba to social democracy in Sweden. Discussing its evolution from the industrial towns of the 19th century to its response to the feminist, green, and anti-capitalist movements today, Newman concludes that, with its values of equality, solidarity, and cooperation, socialism remains as relevant as ever but that it needs to learn lessons from the past. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

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