Liberal Socialism

This is the first English translation of a powerful document, originally published in 1930, on the ethics of political action. Its author wrote the work not only as a critique of fascism, but also as an investigation into the history of Marxism and the need for a liberal reformulation of socialism.

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First published in 1930, amidst the collapse of socialist ideals and the onset of fascism throughout Europe, this was a powerful document on the ethics of political action. During his confinement for anti-fascist beliefs, the Italian political philosopher Carlo Rosselli (1899-1937) wrote this work not only as a critique of fascism, but also as an investigation into the history of Marxism and the need for a liberal reformulation of socialism. In this English-language edition, Nadia Urbinati highlights both the historical and theoretical importance of liberal socialism, which continued to inspire the anti-fascist movement Giustizia e Libertia long after Rosselli's assassination by Mussolini's agents, and which outlines a possible rebirth of the socialist and democratic movements. Rosselli's analysis provides an illuminating interpretation of the ideological crisis of Marxism, in its positivistic version, during the late 19th century. He encourages readers to view socialism as an ethical ideal and to consider whether Marxist or liberal methods combine better with socialism to achieve that ideal.
Rosselli opts for a liberal socialism that avoids the shortcomings of uncontrolled laissez-faire but favours state intervention to secure public services and social rights.