The Soul of Man under Socialism
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4.2 • 104 Ratings
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Publisher Description
Wilde did not see kindness or altruism per se as a problem; what worried him was its misapplication in a way which leaves unaddressed the roots of the problem: "the altruistic virtues have really prevented the carrying out of this aim. Just as the worst slave-owners were those who were kind to their slaves, and so prevented the horror of the system being realised by those who suffered from it, and understood by those who contemplated it, so, in the present state of things in England, the people who do most harm are the people who try to do most good" while preserving the system.
Customer Reviews
An enlightening read
As true today as it was back then.
Humanity can take a lesson or two from Wilde’s work.
Not that he cares what anyone thinks of his work.
Beautiful
Highly recommend
Review
The ‘Soul Of Man...’ is, according to Wilde, the arts so after a few pages on the wider opportunities of socialism as he sees it that’s the focus of this book.
Some valid points made - that socialism should eliminate poverty & capitalism is too much about wealth accumulation (though isn’t that it’s main point?!) - but some wild (pun intended) claims that socialism would lead to no property crime.
As in previous non-fiction writings he brings in religion (Christianity) which might convince some but leaves me cold.
Generally ok but to over done and stressed so that it becomes repetitive.