Book Name : Imperialism - The Highest Stage Of Capitalism
What is it about : In a precise and matter-of-fact manner, Lenin penned this great insightful and clear-eyed work with his analysis on the state-of-play of Capitalism during his time, and he foresaw how logically following on from the initial intention of free trade, Capitalism would lead to the formation of monopolistic cartels, syndicates and Finance-Combined (mega banks with mega influence) and ultimately the inevitable rise of Imperialism where peace would be nowhere to be found in the world as imperialistic "groups of countries" would compete or go to war to satisfy the increasingly parasitic citizens of prosperous coupon-clippers, speculative share-holders and hopelessly needy welfare-seeking voters. Lenin also made a brief remark toward the end of the book, stating "... there is created a bond between imperialism and opportunism ...", of course - Opportunism, sadly now a prevalent political reality in our present day Western societies.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Lenin put together a masterpiece and an o-so-accurate dissection of Capitalism with succinct passages and analysis which came studded with bells and whistles - full of facts, figures and quotes from people-in-the-know (Marxists, Socialists, Capitalists, Imperialists, Reformists, Bourgeoisie alike), during those tumultuous times in the late nineteenth century of great mass awakening and enlightenment. Much of what he presented as well as the phenomena he described still permeated our present-day societies and would still ring true resonance this very day. In the Chapter headed The Division Of The World Among The Great Powers, Lenin quoting a then Imperialist-leaning British advocate " ... If you want to avoid civil war, you must become imperialists ... ", especially rang true to those present day informed readers in tune with current affairs, who viewed daily news with historical perspectives and hindsight.
Would I recommend this book to you : Surprisingly easy to read and follow - not so much a book on ideology, but more a sober reflection and brutal attack on what he saw that was prevalent in his days and since, on the subject and implementation of Capitalism. A must-read for all political science students as well as anyone wishing to gain a clear insight in what actually had been going on this century. A most informative read !
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