Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Reasoning Otherwise: Leftists and the People's Enlightenment in Canada, 1890-1920 by Ian McKay

Reasoning Otherwise: Leftists and the People's Enlightenment in Canada, 1890-1920 by Ian McKay covers the formation of the first generation of socialists within Canada. There is coverage here of a dizzying number of groups, publications and individuals. All of them it seems with slightly different goals and philosophies. Luckily there described in a way that is for the most part easy to follow. The narrative concludes with the Winnipeg general strike of 1919. I was frequently frustrated that McKay has objectivity problems. He comes out of the socialist tradition and frequently uses current views on topics to criticize. He's quick to complain about racism, sexism and homophobia, strangely calls for revolution are passed along without comment.

I only know the general outlines of this history. I found the book interesting. He does have another book talking about more modern Canadian history and the left I'll be looking for it.

Recommended.

Note
:This book was provided through Librarything's early reviewer Program.

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