Kropotkin challenges the notion that competition drives evolution, emphasizing the critical role of cooperation in both nature and human societies. Through an exploration of various examples, including animals and historical communities, he illustrates how mutual aid has been essential for survival and development. This edition features Kropotkin's comprehensive notes, conveniently placed as footnotes for easy reference, enhancing the reader's understanding of his arguments.
This is a new translation from the French original by Iain McKay except for a few chapters previously translated by Nicolas Walter. It includes all the original 1885 text along with the preface to the 1904 Italian as well as the preface and afterward to the 1919 Russian editions. It also includes many articles on the labour movement written by Kropotkin for Le Revolte which show how he envisioned getting from criticism to a social revolution, and a comprehensive glossary and an introduction by Iain McKay. This is the definitive edition of an anarchist classic.
Exploring the thoughts of Peter Kropotkin, this anthology offers a compelling perspective on communist society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection presents two significant works that delve into Kropotkin's ideas, encouraging readers to reflect on his critiques and visions for social organization. Through his unique lens, the anthology invites a deeper understanding of historical and ideological contexts, highlighting Kropotkin's influence on anarchist theory and communal living.
Exploring the inevitability of Socialism, this pamphlet by renowned anarchist philosopher Peter Kropotkin delves into the role of anarchism in the pursuit of social justice. It presents a compelling argument for the integration of anarchist principles within the broader struggle for a fairer society, making it a significant work in radical literature.
The biography explores the life of Peter Alexeyevich Kropotkin, a prominent figure in the anarchist movement and a communist advocate. Known as the "anarchist prince," Kropotkin's ideals and philosophies are examined, alongside his unique perspective on society and politics. His life, described by Oscar Wilde as "perfect," reflects his deep commitment to social justice and revolutionary thought, making him a significant historical figure in the context of Russian and global anarchism.
Important writings by the leading theorist of anarchism, including the brief but moving "Spirit of Revolt," "Law and Authority," an argument for social control through custom and education, and other documents. An invaluable addition to the libraries of instructors, students, and anyone interested in history, government, and anarchist thought.
A classic in philosophy and ethics, and one of the foundational texts of the anarchist movement of the late 19th and early 20th century. Starting with the moral principle in nature, to the moral conceptions of primitive people, Kropotkin traces the development of moral teachings from ancient Greece, Christianity and the Middle Ages through to the 19th century philosophers. In this way Ethics gives answers to two fundamental problems of morality: its origin and historical development, and its goals and standards. Kropotkin is still today one of the most influential moral voices in the quest for universal human happiness. He wanted this book "to inspire the young generation to struggle, to implant in them faith in the justice of social revolution, and to light in their hearts the fire of self-sacrifice." This was Kropotkin's final masterpiece, which was left unfinished at his death and is the swan song of this great humanitarian, scientist, and anarchist. It constitutes the crowning work and the resume of all his scientific, philosophical, and sociological views, at which he arrived in the course of his long and unusually rich life.
In this powerful and thorough debunking of Social Darwinism, the author explains how mutual cooperation within species ensures that those species survive and flourish, in animals as well as in humans. This is an important book to read for those interested in leftist thought, whether socialism, communism, or anarchism. We are stronger together.
Kropotkin's Mutual Aid: A Factor of Evolution represents one of the major contributions to twentieth-century political thought. A classic, though often misunderstood text of anarchist thinking, the book offers an exciting and viable alternative to our current political models. Kropotkin's idea of mutual aid is the radical practice of caring for each other while actively working to change the world. This new and authoritative edition of Kropotkin's important and unique contribution to the history of socialist ideas and anarchist ideology includes a critically informed afterword by Ruth Kinna that elucidates the book's relevance for today.
