Proposed paths to freedom - socialism, anarchism, and the trade union movement

Russell carefully explains the political and economic systems of the three possible alternatives to capitalism at the time: socialism, anarchism, and trade unionism. The book was published in 1918, when the movements were at their peak on the political scene and in the global collective consciousness. At the time, it was difficult to imagine the average reader having a precise understanding of those doctrines, a role in which Russell excelled, as an eloquent interpreter of political economy. He devotes a chapter to each of the movements, specifying their basic buildings and a historical background for each. It then goes on to explore pivotal issues related to both governments and societies, making comparisons between the three systems. He does not believe that capitalism is the ideal economic system under which humanity should proceed, calling for work for an alternative system. It acknowledges the possibility that the three systems in question will fail to confront humanity's inherent greed and propensity for violence. Russell does not defend any of the three schools of thought, but rather proposes a fourth alternative, a (British) form of trade unionism that combines the best elements of the three systems. Russell does not claim to provide complete answers in the book, but he certainly provides the reader with an in-depth analysis in clear, accessible language. He always makes Russell's works a valuable treasure for the rational reader and an encyclopedia for freethinkers.