Socialism and American ideals

A collection of essays that critiques socialist theory and practice from an American political perspective. It challenges materialist interpretations of history, argues that socialism conflicts with the ideal of equality of opportunity, and considers why socialist ideas find support among certain immigrant communities. The author contends that socialism conflicts with basic democratic and religious principles, cites instances he views as practical failures of socialistic measures, and advocates cooperative, voluntary alternatives as a preferred antidote to expanded governmental paternalism. The tone is argumentative and intended to persuade readers of the incompatibility between socialism and the nation’s political and moral traditions.