The Practice and Theory of Bolshevism


Read by Landon D. C. Elkind

(4.7 stars; 24 reviews)

This book records Bertrand Russell's impressions of the new regime after a 1920 visit to Russia following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, including his meetings with Lenin, Trostky, and Gorky. It includes a chapter that was authored by Dora Black, educational theorist and feminist author, and Russell's spouse. This chapter was unfortunately removed in the second edition, which was issued after Dora and Bertrand divorced. This recording is dedicated to my darling wife, Jill. Happy Hanukkah and Happy 2020! - Summary by Landon D. C. Elkind (4 hr 39 min)

Chapters

Preface 9:17 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
What Is Hoped For From Bolshevism 14:01 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
General Characteristics 16:30 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Lenin, Trotsky and Gorky 13:18 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Art and Education 41:42 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Communism and the Soviet Constitution 13:53 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
The Failure of Russian Industry 18:03 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Daily Life in Moscow 11:10 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Town and Country 11:54 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
International Policy 19:32 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
The Materialistic Theory of History 13:48 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Deciding Forces in Politics 9:19 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Bolshevik Criticism of Democracy 18:15 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Revolution and Dictatorship 16:50 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Mechanism and the Individual 12:29 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Why Russian Communism Has Failed 21:42 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind
Conditions for the Success of Communism 18:09 Read by Landon D. C. Elkind

Reviews


(5 stars)

In lucid and cogent prose, in this short book Russell explains why power corrupts and why Bolshevism is not the answer to the world’s problems. Even if you disagree with his affirmation of communist principles expounded in the end, an important historical document that foresaw how Russia would turn into Stalin’s Soviet Union. Very clearly read — thanks!

Just what I was looking for.


(5 stars)

I wanted to learn more about Bolshevism so I thought I’d give this a listen. Russel is to the point and very objective. Never did I feel like he was trying to persuade me one way or another. The reader did a great job as well. He was articulate and read at a good pace.


(5 stars)

i can't tell if this is a satire 😂😂 its like a woody Allen joke or doctor strange love 🤣🤣

Good exploration of the weaknesses of the Bolshevik methods


(4 stars)

why old ides sometimes are best


(5 stars)