The book argues that modern communism did not arise solely from Karl Marx or revolutionary movements in continental Europe, but was significantly shaped by British intellectual, political, and institutional influences. Richard Poe traces the development of socialist and communist ideas through British elites, thinkers, and organizations, suggesting that elements of British policy, academia, and social reform movements helped cultivate, refine, and export communist ideology. The work presents communism as an outgrowth of broader Western political and ideological currents rather than a purely foreign or spontaneous revolutionary phenomenon.
Description:
The book argues that modern communism did not arise solely from Karl Marx or revolutionary movements in continental Europe, but was significantly shaped by British intellectual, political, and institutional influences. Richard Poe traces the development of socialist and communist ideas through British elites, thinkers, and organizations, suggesting that elements of British policy, academia, and social reform movements helped cultivate, refine, and export communist ideology. The work presents communism as an outgrowth of broader Western political and ideological currents rather than a purely foreign or spontaneous revolutionary phenomenon.