Bertrand Russell, 1917

Political Ideals

FIRST PUBLISHED (U.S.A. ONLY) 1917
FIRST PUBLISHED IN GREAT BRITAIN 1963

Political Ideals

This little book, an early epitome of Russell’s thought, appears for the first time in England. Capitalism, socialism and the organization of the world are examined in the light of Russell’s strongest conviction: that everything of value comes ultimately from the individual. The only true aim of politics is therefore to give free play, as far as possible, to every man’s natural creativity, and to curb, wherever they manifest themselves, the deadening forces of acquisition, power and convention. The book was originally published in America in 1917. But in spite of all that has happened since then, it remains, vintage Russell, as valid as ever.

Foreword

This book was written in 1917, but was published only in America. It was intended to be delivered as lectures, but the War Office prevented this. The first chapter was to have been given as a lecture in Glasgow with Robert Smillie, President of the Miners’ Federation, in the Chair. Just before it was to have been delivered, the Government forbade me to enter what were called ‘prohibited areas’, among which Glasgow was included. These areas included everything near the sea coast, and the order was intended against spies to prevent them from signalling to German submarines. The War Office, however, was kind enough to say that it did not suspect me of being a spy for the Germans. It only charged me with inciting industrial disaffection in order to stop the war. It was announced that Smillie would take over the Glasgow meeting in spite of my inevitable absence. In fact, he delivered the lecture which I had intended to give. The audience were somewhat surprised by the difference from his usual style. But at the very end he announced that he had been giving my banned lecture. The Government was too dependent upon coal to proceed against him.