O's Reviews > Heaven on Earth: The Rise and Fall of Socialism

This was an interesting read about the history of socialism. The author's own personal, family connection lends some interesting insight into the history of Kibuttz settlement in Israel. It also helped me understand the generally pessimistic view that he holds throughout most of the book. Of course that's not to say I don't disagree. In particular, the history of communism seems be a history of hope and f related f to live up too those hopes.

Before reading this book I was convinced that socialism presented a naïve and alluringly simplistic reading of history without presenting any useful or workable solutions to its diagnosed injustices. Social democratic systems have proven far superior, allowing the 'invisible hand' of capitalism to direct an economy, that human minds are incapable of, whilst occasionally intervening to prevent unfair business practices and to garantee key rights (healthcare for example). After reading this book my convictions have largely remained the same, if not reinforced.

In terms of what has been written, the prose is light and readable. The one time it really dragged was due to the subject matter (the incredibly boring history of the American labor movement) rather than the author's style.

At the end of the novel, the author draws a conclusion which I disagree with.

He correctly identifies socialism with religion and observes some interesting parallels. However, he goes on to claim that socialism's lack of moral precepts allowed 20th century atrocities to be carried out in its name. He goes on to say that religion's have not committed similar atrocities. Notwithstanding the fact that 20th century technology and higher populations allowed such massacres to be committed more easily, I should point out that Ghengis Khan and the leaders of the Taiping rebellion claimed to be divinely inspired and also led to the deaths of millions (in China 20-30 million people lost their lives in the Taiping rebellion).

Anyway, minor objection aside, it's a worthwhile read. It can be satisfying to sometimes read an unapologetically impartial account of history. The author's rather withering take on Marx's life and accomplishments are worth picking up the book alone.