Thinking Like a Communist: State and Legitimacy in the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba

by Tony Smith

This particular study shows how the theories of Marx and Lenin have shaped communist practice, in particular how Lenin's model adapted to diverse conditions in Russia, China, and Cuba. It offers valuable insights into the possible limits of change in communist societies, and into the future course of East-West relations. "Prof. Smith's brief incisively written book is worth pondering because, among other things, it is high;y relevant to the question of the likelihood of transformation of communist thinking, and how to appraise its authenticity." ―Sidney Hook, senior fellow, Hoover Institution, in the Wall Street Journal "[Smith's] critique of Marxism-Leninism as practiced throughout the world has great elegance of construction, subdued wit, and clarity of expression . . . Thinking Like a Communist is a timely, cogent, and very smart book." ―Thomas D'Evelyn, Christian Science Monitor "A brilliantly original study of the 'laws of motion' of Communist thought, how they have shaped history during the past hundred years, and what they portend for the future." ―Chilton Williamson, Jr., National Review

Genres: Political Science

248 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Tony Smith is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Iowa State University of Science and Technology

Reviews

[Jeffrey Durant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personally, I love reading books about communism written in the mid-to-late 1980s. Predictions about the future of the Soviet Union during that time period were as varied as they were inevitably erroneous, but they provide a great deal of insight into the late-Cold War mindset. I think that’s the most valuable part of reading Tony Smith's Thinking Like a Communist. It gives the reader a chance to inhabit an irretrievable viewpoint. Additionally, Smith provides a fascinating analysis of the development of Marxist thought throughout the 20th century. By effectively arguing that Leninism, Maoism, and Castroism are natural outgrowths of Marxism’s fundamental tenets, Smith counters the commonly held belief that artificially enforced manifestations of communism are inherently anti-Marxist. Furthermore, Smith adopts an empathetic form of analysis. As the title implies, this book attempts to perceive the history of communism from the perspective of individuals who actively sought to bring about and maintain their vision of Marxism. It is suggested reading for anyone who enjoys studying 20th-century history or political philosophy.