PHILOSOPHY FOR THE PEOPLE EP. 78: MARX'S INFERNO

Francis Spufford's "Red Plenty" is a work of historical fiction that explores the Soviet Union's ambitious quest for economic abundance during the Khrushchev era. The narrative weaves together fictional characters with real historical figures, offering a nuanced portrayal of the era's complexities. Spufford masterfully blends factual events with imaginative storytelling, creating a compelling narrative that challenges traditional historical accounts. The book delves into the Soviet Union's attempts to implement cybernetics and mathematical planning to improve economic efficiency, highlighting the inherent challenges of a centrally planned economy. Ultimately, "Red Plenty" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the Soviet dream and its ultimate failure.

Half-Earth Socialism proposes a radical plan to address the interconnected crises of extinction, climate change, and pandemics. The authors advocate for rewilding half the Earth to restore biodiversity and absorb carbon emissions. A rapid transition to renewable energy, coupled with significant consumption reductions among the wealthy, is also crucial. Global veganism is presented as a necessary step to reduce land and energy use. Finally, the book champions worldwide socialist planning for equitable and efficient resource management.