Blackshirts and Reds: Rational Fascism and the Overthrow of Communism

Blackshirts and Reds: Rational Fascism and the Overthrow of Communism cover
Good Books rating 4.3
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Technical
  • ID: 6720
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780872868199
  • Publisher: City Lights Books
  • Published: 2020-09-09
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Blackshirts & Reds delves into the major political and economic ideologies of our time, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on fascism, capitalism, communism, revolution, democracy, and ecology. Michael Parenti, a renowned progressive political analyst, dissects the intricate relationships between these ideologies, revealing how 'rational fascism' serves capitalism and how corporate power undermines democracy. The book also examines the forces that led to the downfall of communism and the subsequent impact on eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Parenti's lucid and compelling style invites readers to entertain iconoclastic views and question why things are as they are. He affirms the relevance of taboo ideologies like Marxism, demonstrating the importance of class analysis in understanding political realities and dealing with the ongoing collision between ecology and global corporatism. This book is a call to think beyond truncated modes of thought and engage with the complex issues that shape our world.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2000-01-01
great 4.40

The book is praised for its clear argumentation and accessibility, appealing to both left and right audiences. It is noted for its lack of theoretical jargon, making it widely understandable.

This book is highly regarded for its straightforward and persuasive writing style. It effectively bridges the gap between anti-communist sentiments on both the left and the right, presenting complex ideas in an accessible manner. The absence of dense theoretical language makes it an engaging read for a broad audience. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to challenge conventional thinking and encourages readers to explore its thought-provoking content.


Quick quotes

    A great offering by Parenti.

    Written with argumentative clarity and devoid of theoretical jargon.

    This book responds to both the anti-communist left and right.

The Storygraph · 2000-01-01
good 4.00

The book is recommended for its insightful content but requires critical reading. The author attempts to balance the narrative, though personal biases may be evident.

This book is highly recommended for its deep insights into leftist theory and Marxism. It is praised for being extremely readable and informative, with a wealth of citations to support its arguments. The reviewer notes that while the book is well-balanced, the author's personal biases might subtly influence the content. Readers are encouraged to approach the book with a critical eye to fully appreciate its nuances and complexities.


Quick quotes

    This is a great book, and I recommend it.

    However, you need to be able to critically read it.

    The author makes an effort to balance their book, but he has a ...

The Storygraph · 2000-01-01
excellent 4.50

The book is described as prescient and crucial for understanding contemporary political struggles. It is seen as essential for gaining class consciousness in the face of current political regimes.

This book is described as remarkably prescient, making it a crucial read for those opposed to current political regimes. The reviewer emphasizes its importance in fostering class consciousness and understanding the broader forces at play in today's political landscape. The book is seen as a timely and necessary exploration of fascism, capitalism, and communism, offering valuable insights for navigating contemporary political struggles.


Quick quotes

    I wish this book weren't so damned prescient.

    In 2025, it is crucial that all opposed to the Trump regime gain class consciousness to see the wider forces ...

    A bold and entertaining exploration of the epic struggles of yesterday and today.

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