Essential Works of Socialism is the most authoritative one-volume collection of major socialist writings to appear in English. Edited by Irving Howe, the well-known social historian and literary critic, it not only includes classic statements by Marx, Engels, Bukharin, Plekhanov, Lenin, Luxemburg, and Trotsky, but also analysis, polemic, and re-evaluations from such varied figures as Djilas, Silone, Ricoeur, Lichtheim, Orwell, Buber, Kolakowski, Cole, and Harrington. Howe's Introduction emphasizes that this is an anthology of socialist thought, not of Marxism. Marxism has, of course, been the most influential strand of thought in the development of modern socialism, but non-Marxist socialism is also well represented in this volume. Howe has managed to avoid the inclusion of esoteric and internal socialist controversies; the debates that are anthologized here, as with the assault Trotsky launched against Stalinism, or Plekhanov's anticipation of revolution leading to a new Asiatic despotism, have lost none of their relevance. Right-wing and left-wing socialists are both present, as well as the many who fit neither label, but the Essential Works of Socialism has been edited out of a conviction that no compromise is possible between democratic socialists and the various defenders of authoritarian and totalitarian despotism, who have appropriated the name of socialism.

A confrontation and critique edited by Irving Howe with essays by Michael Harrington, Paul Goodman, Eugene Genovese, Robert Brustein, Theodore Draper, Lewis Coser, and many others.

A World More Attractive: A View of Modern Literature and Politics is a non-fiction book written by Irving Howe. The book provides an insightful and thought-provoking analysis of the intersection of literature and politics in the modern world. Howe explores the ways in which literature reflects and shapes our political beliefs and values, and how political ideologies can influence the literary works of authors.The book is divided into three parts. The first part examines the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the world, and how literature can be used to challenge or reinforce political ideologies. The second part delves into the political themes and messages in modern literature, focusing on the works of authors such as George Orwell, James Baldwin, and Saul Bellow. The third part explores the relationship between literature and political activism, and how literature can inspire social change.Throughout the book, Howe draws on his vast knowledge of literature and politics to provide insightful commentary and analysis. He offers a nuanced and complex view of the relationship between literature and politics, highlighting the ways in which they are interconnected and influence one another. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to both academic and general readers.Overall, A World More Attractive is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of literature and politics. It offers a fascinating and insightful exploration of this complex and important topic, and is sure to spark lively debate and discussion.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.