The Communist Manifesto

I still vividly remember the first time I read this book in my teenage years in Tehran. Its powerful rhythm, its vivid political imagery, and its sweeping vision shook me. It caught me right then and has never quite let go.

Not only has it remained relevant throughout the years, but it still reads like the literary masterpiece that it is. 

In a divergence from authoritarianism, The Communist Manifesto explains the ideologies and methods of mobilizing individuals around a common cause. Historically, the gravitational pull toward complete control by the ruling party separates cause from the common individual. Theoretically, the works of Marx and Engels should work, as described, if indeed humanity was naturally of goodwill and intent. I recommend reading The Communist Manifesto for informative purposes but not for application. It is important to understand both sides of a coin if you are to flip it into the air.

Written in 1848, The Communist Manifesto is still fresh and relevant. If you’ve never read it, or read it a long time ago, this is the place to start for understanding not only what communism is but why it has inspired so many around the world. In powerful and often poetic prose, Marx and Engels explain the workings of capitalism and urge the oppressed to come together to take action against inequality and oppression. As a bonus, many recent editions include provocative forewords (including one by my next pick, Eric Hobsbawm) that explore how the Manifesto can help us understand… show more.