World History Companions – serie

Utopian ideas have had an impact on almost every area of life including political theory, science, psychology, society, the economy, literature, and culture. The idea of utopia has evolved and taken many forms since Sir Thomas More coined the word in 1516. Originating with Greek philosophers, the concept has evolved into a distinctly Western notion relating to progress or improvement dating from the Renaissance. This work selectively covers in an A-to-Z format utopian thought and movements globally from 1450 to the present. Emphasizing western utopian thought, this volume also covers utopian thought in eastern cultures such as China where western ideas have infiltrated. Included are significant movements and sects, settlements and communes, and legislation related to the utopian phenomenon. An introduction, numerous cross-references, bibliographic citations, a chronology, and a subject index complete this unique work, which will be of interest to students, teachers, and general readers alike.

From Adam Smith and the Industrial Revolution to Wall Street and multinational corporations, capitalism has long been one of the world's leading economic systems. This work traces the evolution of capitalism from its roots in medieval Europe's rigid economy, through the laissez-faire abuses of the 19th century, to its contemporary form as shaped by competition with socialism. Covering the period from 1450 to 1998, Larry Allen examines significant laws, government policies, treaties, events, concepts, and people. Entries include the British General Strike of 1926, the Corn Laws, Factory Acts, the Great Depression, International Monetary Fund, the Labour Party, the Privatization Revolution, Refuedalization, and the Welfare State. Written clearly for the general reader, each entry gives historical facts and social context, not only defining the term itself, but clarifying and describing how it influenced and shaped the economic, political, and social fabric.