Product Description

The collapse of communism was one of the most defining moments of the twentieth century. At its peak, more than a third of the world's population had lived under communist power. What is communism? Where did the idea come from and what attracted people to it? What is the future for communism? This Very Short Introduction considers these questions and more in the search to explore and understand communism. Explaining the theory behind its ideology, and examining the history and mindset behind its political, economic and social structures, Leslie Holmes examines the highs and lows of communist power and its future in today's world.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #37970 in Books
• Published on: 2009-08-27
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 144 pages

Review
Very readable and with its wealth of detail a most valuable reference book. (Gwyn Griffiths, Morning Star )

Customer Reviews

The title says it all
"A Very Short Introduction to Communism" provides what it says on the tin. Written by a Professor of Political Science from the University of Melbourne, this book is 155 small pages (this could fit in your inside pocket and possibly raise a few eyebrows at airport check-ins) and covers a number of issues:

*the theory of communism
*a brief history of communism in power
*the political system of communism
*the economic system of communism
*social policies and structures of communism
*communism's international allegiances
*the collapse of communism - and the future

In a book of this size, the author could only skim across these subject areas and so the book inevitably appears a bit patchy in places (there are a few sets of statistics, some depth in theory here and there, and some case studies). I think this is a worthwhile intro for those interested in the subject area. It's an easy read and overall is generally informative.

The problem with 'very short guides' is that it's difficult to please everyone, but considering the price I think you're getting a decent deal here. This book is a useful foundation for a more comprehensive reading list into what is a lingering and fascinating subject area (regardless of your political persuasions).