Illusion of progress

Author: Georges Sorel (France)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-08-01
Features: It is a joy that Sorel's work has been translated into English, and particularly pleasing is the high quality of the translation, as well as the valuable introduction by Professor Stanley. It is worth noting that even Sorel's most ardent admirers do not consider clarity of thought or elegance of style to be his strengths. The writing structure and style adopted in his works and articles reflect the evident conflicts in his life, purpose, and thought. Sorel's purpose in The Illusion of Progress and in most of his other works was to demonstrate that the excellence of morality had long been separated from political progressivism and was instead rooted in socialist independence of producers. To preserve this excellence intact, the virtuous new man must remain independent of all ideas and institutions associated with the concept of progress—the very purpose of which is to eliminate the distinctions that give rise to social conflicts. This is another reason why Sorel did not regard Marx, the theorist who elaborated on class conflict and struggle, as a progressive thinker.