L. W. Currey, Inc.

Van Deusen, Alonzo, writing as "A Capitalist." RATIONAL COMMUNISM: THE PRESENT AND THE FUTURE REPUBLIC OF NORTH AMERICA. By A Capitalist [pseudonym]. New York: The Social Science Publishing Company, 1885. Octavo, pp. [v-vii] viii-xi [xii] [13] 14-498 [499-500: blank] [note: text complete despite gap in pagination], flyleaves at front and rear, original decorated blue cloth, front panel stamped in black, rear panel stamped in blind, spine panel stamped in gold, yellow endpapers. First edition. Issued both in paper wrappers at 50¢ (by the Truth Seeker Company) and in cloth, this being one of the latter. "In a series of visions, the author sees the future of the 'New Republic.' All things in this utopia, as he frequently calls it, are organized upon the broad humanitarian principle of the universal brotherhood of man -- the principle that the stronger and more favored are in duty bound to assist the weaker and less favorite. The cause of the change was 'the abolition of the system of Individual Property, and the devising, instituting, and establishing in its stead of a property system which made justice between man and man not only possible, but the interest and pleasure of each and all." The last four chapters contrast contemporary life with that in the future, examine the objections to communism, consider methods for transition to a system of collective property, and a few of the dangers of such an attempt. The author takes great pains to point out 'that intelligent Communism, or a well-devised system of collective property is not that infamous property system which it is usually taught us would plunge mankind into confusion, anarchy, and bloodshed, sap their energies, subvert all progress, and destroy civilization itself." - Lewis, Utopian Literature, p. 194. "All works of strictly public character owned by the government. Small communities. Very detailed" - Sargent, British and American Utopian Literature, 1516-1985, p. 74. Kopp 978. Rooney, Dreams and Visions: A Study of American Utopias, 1865-1917, p. 199. Mild rubbing to cloth at spine ends and corner tips, a bright, tight, nearly fine copy. (#157110).

Price: $750.00