Who is the author of 'The God that Failed'?

The author of 'The God that Failed' is Richard Howard Stafford Crossman.

What are the main themes in 'The God that Failed'?

The main themes in 'The God that Failed' include Social Justice Movements, Political Ideologies, Political History, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'The God that Failed'?

'The God that Failed' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs.

What is the main theme of 'The God that Failed'?

The main theme of 'The God that Failed' by Richard Howard Stafford Crossman is the exploration of disillusionment with ideology and the complexities of faith, especially in the context of communism. The book delves into the author's personal journey as he grapples with his early beliefs in communism and ultimately confronts the failures of the system and idealism. It addresses the struggle of reconciling one's ideals with reality and the impact of political beliefs on personal relationships.

Who is the author of the book and what was his background?

The author of 'The God that Failed' is Richard Howard Stafford Crossman, commonly known as Richard Crossman. He was a British politician, writer, and journalist. Crossman was a member of the Labour Party and served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for over two decades. He was also an influential thinker and held positions in government, including Minister of State for Social Services. Besides his political career, he was known for his engaging writings on various political and social issues, often reflecting on his experiences and beliefs.

What does the author explore in terms of personal and political beliefs in the book?

In 'The God that Failed', Richard Crossman explores the intersection of personal and political beliefs through his own experiences and reflections on communism. He delves into the disillusionment that many intellectuals faced with the ideologies they once supported. The author discusses the complexities of loyalty, the impact of ideology on personal relationships, and the moral dilemmas that arise from political commitment. Crossman reflects on how his understanding of communism evolved as he confronted the realities of its application in practice, leading to a profound examination of faith, betrayal, and the search for truth in both personal and collective contexts.

How does the author describe his experiences with communism?

In 'The God That Failed,' Richard Crossman details his personal experiences with communism, emphasizing his initial enthusiasm for its ideals and the disillusionment that followed. He reflects on how communism offered him a sense of purpose and belonging, particularly during his youth, but over time, he became increasingly aware of the oppressive and authoritarian nature of the regime. Crossman critiques the rigidity and dogmatism within communist organizations, which ultimately led to his rejection of the ideology. He shares anecdotes that illustrate both the allure of communism as a transformative movement and the harsh realities of life under its rule, culminating in a profound sense of betrayal by a system he once revered.

What key events in the author's life influenced the writing of 'The God that Failed'?

'The God That Failed' by Richard Crossman is influenced by several key events in his life, particularly his journey from political idealism to disillusionment. One significant event was Crossman's involvement in the British Socialist movement and the Labour Party, where he initially embraced Marxist ideologies. His experiences during World War II and witnessing the consequences of totalitarian regimes contributed to his later skepticism about communism. Additionally, Crossman's personal reflections on his relationships with fellow intellectuals and party members who became disillusioned with communism shaped his perspective on the ideology. These experiences culminated in his autobiographical exploration of faith, politics, and the conflict between personal beliefs and political realities.

The God that Failed

In 'The God that Failed,' Richard Crossman shares a poignant exploration of disillusionment with communism, recounting his personal journey from fervent belief to profound skepticism. Through a compelling mix of autobiography and political analysis, he illuminates the seductive allure of ideological commitment and the harsh realities that follow. Crossman's storytelling reveals the intimate struggles of reconciling personal values with party loyalty, making readers question the nature of faith and trust. This riveting narrative not only chronicles a man's ideological battle but also serves as a universal reflection on the cost of devotion to a cause. Prepare to be captivated by a tale of passion, betrayal, and the search for truth.

By Richard Howard Stafford Crossman

Published: 2001

"The greatest betrayal is not the one that is done to others, but the one we commit against ourselves by denying our own truths."

Politics and Current Affairs Political Ideologies Social Justice Movements Political History

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What Readers Say About This Book

Engerman's introduction to this work recounts how the collection was assembled, how the lessons of the Cold War remain vital to the debate of current events, and how the influence of communism was able to reshape the direction of intellectual life.

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Key Points from The God that Failed

In "The God that Failed," Richard Crossman meticulously details his transformation from an ardent communist to a disillusioned skeptic, epitomizing the vulnerabilities that come with blind ideological commitment. Initially, he is drawn to the utopian visions of communism, enchanted by its promise of equality and collective solidarity amidst the injustices of capitalism. Crossman vividly recounts his invigorating experiences in the early days of his involvement, where he felt part of a powerful movement dedicated to revolutionary change. However, as he delves deeper, he confronts the stark realities that contradict the ideology’s lofty promises. His disillusionment emerges poignantly through specific events, such as witnessing the brutal suppression of dissent within communist regimes and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals in favor of authoritarianism. This journey is emblematic of a broader theme in the book, highlighting how passionately held beliefs can lead to profound disillusionment when faced with reality. Crossman's narrative serves not only as a personal reflection but also as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ideological fervor, ultimately questioning the ability of any ideology to provide absolute truth or justice. By paralleling his journey with the failures of the communist movement, Crossman underscores a critical argument: that unwavering loyalty to an ideology can cloud judgment and obscure the complexities of human experience.

About the Author

Richard Howard Stafford Crossman

Richard Howard Stafford Crossman is a celebrated author and a prominent figure in contemporary literature. Best known for his notable works such as 'The Lost Ones', 'Manifestations of the Invisible', and 'The Road Divided', Crossman's writings often delve into themes of identity, existentialism, and the human experience. His prose is characterized by its lyrical quality and profound psychological insight, drawing readers into complex emotional landscapes. With a keen ability to blend narrative depth with philosophical questions, Crossman has established himself as a distinctive voice in modern literature.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Richard Howard Stafford Crossman
Published: January 2001
Publisher: Columbia University Press
ISBN: 0231123957
Language: English
Pages: 334
Genres: Social Justice MovementsPolitical IdeologiesPolitical HistoryPolitics and Current Affairs

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“The greatest betrayal is not the one that is done to others, but the one we commit against ourselves by denying our own truths.”

The God that Failed

By Richard Howard Stafford Crossman

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The God that Failed

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