Adventures in Marxism

First let me say what I appreciated about this book. Berman is a serious intellectual with an enormous amount of knowledge to share about not only Marxism but literature, philosophy and history as well. He joyfully describes his youthful adoration of Marx's "Economic and Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844," written by a younger and perhaps more spiritually vibrant Marx. Berman comes across not at all as a dogmatist. But rather as a very learned and thoughtful scholar. His intention with this book is to place Marx firmly within his proper place in the German humanist/romantic tradition, alongside Goethe and many others. Also Berman never makes excuses for the failures of Communism in the "real world". But readily admits that the tanks in Budapest and the purges of Stalin were a nightmare, as the Randy Newman song quoted in his preface states "If Marx were alive today, He'd be rolling around in his grave". Of course, Berman, like Marx, is also a hopeless idealist who believes that the positive potential of human society is still virtually untapped and that revolutionary change for the better is still in the process of unfolding. Furthermore, Berman sees Marx as a still useful and important voice for the Western radical humanist movement that began with the French Revolution and was continued by numerous Communists and anarchists through the 1960's counterculture to the radical activists of today and beyond. Personally, I thinks Berman is probably too optimistic in his outlook on the future of humanity and the societies that we will likely create. But still I respect his point of view on this subject. Whether Marx will continue to be a useful voice is also highly debatable. Certainly Marx is a serious thinker with some valid things to say. But the truth is that Marx's ideas were perverted, by Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot and others, to justify some of the most brutal atrocities of the 20th century. So, for most people, Marx's name will always be tainted by these murderous tyrants as well as the ultimate failure of Communism to succeed as a viable alternative to capitalism. I would still give this book 5 stars if it were written as a congruent whole. But instead it is actually quite choppy to read, as it is essentially a series of essays and book reviews Berman wrote between 1963-1988. Also it's hard to imagine who the targeted audience for this book would be. It is definitely not intended as a basic introduction to Marx and Marxism. Also most firebrand orthodox Marxists would probably not appreciate it, as it is definitely more philosophical musings than fiery dogma. Still Berman is a good writer with some interesting points to make. So this is probably worthwhile reading for those that are interested.

This collection of essays provides instructive and sometimes critical insights into Marx's works and their implications in the modern context. Berman has produced an enjoyable read overall. I found it thought-provoking to say the least. I recommend the book for anyone interested in Marxist thinking, irrespective of one's political point-of-view.

Berman engages the reader through a fun romp through a variety of essays that span 50 years. A dialogue between Arthur Miller and the young Marx interplaying throughout the streets of New York City and discussions of modernity. Berman is brilliant at illuminating the culture which continues to feed a spirit of resistance, proving that the New Left, never really died but was crowded out by the New Right. Lays the basis for revitalized discourse for the next left.

I bought this hoping it'd be a good starting point on learning about Marx. Was not dissapointed here. I also thought, thanks to the cartoon cover, the book would be an easy read. But nope, this youngster had some trouble with Berman's style of writing! :( Oh yea, a correction.. many reviews say Berman was giving away copies fo the Communist Manifesto to his friends and family as a youngster. This is not true... he was giving away Marx's Philosophical Manuscripts of 1844. Not that this is really relevant to why or why you should not check this book out... *anticipates a lot of "No, this review was not helpful" marks*

Rarely does an author combine such comprehensive knowledge of his subject and such deep love of it with the language to convey both. A masterpiece. Forcefully conveys why the ideas of Karl Marx remain current in the 21st century and how they can bring inspiration to those who still aspire to a society in which 'the free development of each is condition of the free development of all."