Fourier: 'The Theory of the Four Movements'

An English translation of important text in the history of socialism.

Charles Fourier (Author), Gareth Stedman Jones (Edited by), Ian Patterson (Edited by)

9780521356930, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 22 February 1996

366 pages
22.4 x 14.4 x 2.3 cm, 0.52 kg

This remarkable book, written soon after the French Revolution, has traditionally been considered one of the founding documents in the history of socialism. It introduces the best-known and most extraordinary utopia written in the last two centuries. Charles Fourier was among the first to formulate a right to a minimum standard of life. His radical approach involved a systematic critique of work, marriage and patriarchy, together with a parallel right to a sexual minimum. He also proposed a comprehensive alternative to the Christian religion. Finally, through the medium of a bizarre and extraordinary cosmology, Fourier argued that the poor state of the planet is the result of the evil practices of civilisation. Translated into English, this classic text will be of particular interest to students and scholars of the history of sexuality and feminism, political thought and socialism.

Introduction
Principal events in Fourier's life
Brief note on further reading (in English)
Translator's introduction
Theory of the four movements and of the general destinies
1808 Introduction
First part
Second part
Third part
Omitted chapter
Note A
Advice to the civilised
1818 Introduction.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]