The Archaic Culture of Capitalism

In this book, which examines the concepts of modernity dominant in the West and the historical development of the "bourgeois" society model, Ellen Meiksins Wood argues against the assumptions that the concrete example of bourgeois modernity, the "modern" state and political culture emerged in Continental Europe. For example, he argues that it shows pre-capitalist social property relations. In contrast, in England, the absence of a "modern" state and its associated political discourse testified to a developed capitalism. The fundamental shortcomings of the British economy do not show signs of hindered development, but the contradictions of the capitalist system.
Dealing with economic and political history together with the history of thought, Wood engages in a wide range of debates, from the current "Nairn-Anderson" theses to CD Clark and Alan Macfarlane, and examines various topics: the path of development followed by British capitalism and French absolutism; symbolic symbols of the state and nation; Cultural patterns of the English language; urbanism, ruralism and garden landscaping; ideas about sovereignty, democracy, property and progress.
It is an interesting work for those interested in contemporary capitalism as well as those interested in the history of early modern European or Western political thought.

"A breath of fresh air... Among the books I have read over the decades, this book made me think and rethink the most... It was a pleasure to read."
-Christopher Hill-

(From the Promotional Bulletin)

Dough Type: 2nd Dough

Size: 13.5 x 19.5

First Print Year: 2007

Number of Printings: 3rd Edition

Original Language: English

Original Title: The Pristine Culture of Capitalism: A Historical E