Imperialism: A Study

What really drives empires? In this groundbreaking 1902 work, John A. Hobson delivers a devastating economic and political analysis of imperialism, arguing that it stems not from national destiny or cultural superiority, but from the needs of finance capital. His incisive critique—tracing how surplus wealth, vested interests, and military expansion feed one another—remains startlingly relevant today. This Modern Reader’s Edition presents Hobson’s classic in clear, accessible contemporary English, preserving the force and nuance of the original while removing the barriers of period prose. It includes a glossary of key figures and terms, memorable passages for reflection, and guidance on reading a work that shaped modern thought. Part of The Modern Wisdom Library.