Against the background of growing uncertainty about the future development of capitalism, and in the face of war, terror and poverty, this book asks: What do we have to know to prevent misery? What can we do to achieve conditions of human dignity? And what must we hope for? The volume argues that all social life is essentially practical and explores the central most important value of human dignity. It discusses practical consequences in relation to the theory of revolution and contemporary anti-globalization struggles. Targeted towards advanced undergraduate courses and taught post-graduate courses in the field of politics, sociology, political philosophy and new social movement studies, it should also be welcomed in the study of critical theory, Marxism, labour studies and revolutionary thought.
Industry Reviews
'I cannot think of any work in/on Marxist theory published in recent years where the contributions are as provocative and as well argued - or as convincing - as in this superb scholarly selection. There is no reason for surprise, however, given that they were written by some of the world's leading Marxist thinkers. And all this on the most important topics of our time. An outstanding work destined to become the focus of a much needed debate among Marxists and non-Marxists alike. Five stars.' Professor Bertell Ollman, New York University, USA 'Many continue to hold that Marxism is an exhausted research program without practical relevance. It is probably too much to hope that this brilliant collection will put to rest that idea. But it should. The authors are among the world's foremost authorities on both Capital and struggles against the present form of globalization. No one interested in either Marxian theory or contemporary social movements should overlook this set of carefully-argued and provocative essays.' Professor Tony Smith, Iowa State University, Iowa, USA 'This collection of essays addresses the turmoil of our times - war, terrorism, and poverty - with reference to the large-scale historical developments usually referred to as "globalization". The essays raise fundamental questions regarding the compatibility of capitalism and human dignity, and distinguish anti-globalization movements that enhance such dignity from those that, in the name of resistance, further undermine it. Anyone interested in coming to grips critically with the present as history will be stimulated by reading this book.' Moishe Postone, University of Chicago, USA 'The volume argues that all social life is essentially practical and explores the central most important value of human dignity. It discusses practical consequences in relation to the theory of revolution and contemporary anti-globalization struggles. By the authors of the excellent "Open Marxism" series.'