Communism: A Very Short Introduction

Prior to reading this short book, I had had very scarce knowledge of communism. This book is very useful.Although the book does explain the theory of Communism, it nevertheless places a greater emphasis on the practice of the system mostly during the 20th century. One will read, among other things, about the political process within Communist states, and the policies they adopted in a wide range of issues (such as women's private lives).The author, in my opinion, furnishes this information in such a straightforward fashion that the reader will feel he or she has mastered the subject upon finishing reading! This short read has definitely motivated me to move on to other related subjects such as the history of the Soviet Union, or Mao's China.I highly recommend it!

As a History Major, the subject of Communism has come up this semester more than one would prefer, especially in regards to Communism in China. This book is a good introduction to Communism as a whole, starting out with the theory, the history, and the various aspects,such as Political, Economic, and Social constructs of Communism as a whole. Perfect for anyone wanting to learn about what communism entails.

Very insightful and painted an interesting picture from the past mistakes and were communist nation's adapt towards the future. Hybrid of capitalism!

The book does a great job giving foundational knowledge about communism, while acknowledging the complex areas that have multiple interpretations.

somewhat useful.

Very interesting.

Well done book.

First of all, this is not a bad book, it is just not a book about the subject it claims to be.If you buying this books with intent to know what is Communism, i.e how it different from other "isms", mainly Socialism? How different proponents of it envisioned the life under Communism? What is the history of the idea and what are the present strands of it? You will find close to zero information in this book.If they published this book under the title: "The Rise and Fall of Communist States", it would have been a decent short historical overview. A bit bland and boring, but covering most of the major areas, written by knowledgeable author, who as far as I can tell got his facts right, and for the most part managed to keep his tone neutral.

Excellent resource for learning the history and the dogma of the ideology of communism. I am a history student studying the USSR and it's interpretation of communism and I have found this a most useful resource in aiding my studies. Would highly recommend.

This book covers a lot but it is a very difficult read if you are new to the subject, which really defeats the point of it being an "introduction". Uses lots of technical terms without explaining them well, or at all in some cases.

An excellent short guide--a little partisan but generally tries to get essential information across. Amazingly comprehensive for such a small book.

A very dull summary of basic history, with very little focus on the theory of Communism. It would be good as a short History book, but that is not what I expected.

Very interesting book and fast delivery