The New Society   By: Walther Rathenau (1867-1922)

In "The New Society," Walther Rathenau presents his vision for a transformed world, filled with hope and possibilities. Published posthumously, this collection of essays reveals Rathenau's deep insights and thought-provoking ideas that continue to resonate with readers today.

The book is divided into seven sections, each exploring various facets of Rathenau's vision for the future. From politics and economics to education and morality, Rathenau presents a comprehensive blueprint for building a new society that strives for harmony, justice, and progress.

One of the book's strongest aspects is Rathenau's emphasis on the importance of education. He argues that an educated society is essential for progress, urging readers to expand their intellectual horizons and embrace new ideas. In this regard, Rathenau's insights are particularly relevant, as they underscore the transformative power of knowledge and its role in shaping a better world.

Rathenau's reflections on the balance between individualism and collectivism are also thought-provoking. While acknowledging the benefits of individual freedom, he emphasizes the need to cultivate a sense of collective responsibility. Through compelling arguments, Rathenau argues that only by working together can we address the challenges facing humanity and create a society built on justice and equality.

Another key theme in "The New Society" is Rathenau's vision of a post-war Europe. Drawing on his experiences as a German industrialist and politician, he outlines an inclusive and collaborative vision for the continent, one that transcends national boundaries and builds on mutual understanding and cooperation. Rathenau's ideas, although written during a particular historical context, offer timeless insights on achieving peace and prosperity across borders.

While the book undoubtedly presents a wealth of ideas, some readers may find Rathenau's prose challenging and dense at times. His academic style, though intellectually stimulating, may require careful reading and reflection. However, this should not deter readers from diving into the book, as the rewards of exploring Rathenau's ideas are well worth the effort.

Overall, "The New Society" is a thought-provoking and impactful read. Rathenau's visionary ideas and insightful analysis make this book a significant contribution to the discourse on societal transformation. Although written nearly a century ago, this collection of essays remains highly relevant to contemporary debates on issues such as education, politics, and international relations. Anyone interested in exploring the possibilities of a better future will find Rathenau's "The New Society" a rich and rewarding read.

First Page:

Walther Rathenau, author of Die neue Gesellschaft and other studies of economic and social conditions in modern Germany, was born in 1867. His father, Emil Rathenau, was one of the most distinguished figures in the great era of German industrial development, and his son was brought up in the atmosphere of hard work, of enterprise, and of public affairs. After his school days at a Gymnasium , or classical school, he studied mathematics, physics and chemistry at the Universities of Berlin and of Strassburg, taking his degree at the age of twenty two. Certain discoveries made by him in chemistry and electrolysis led to the establishment of independent manufacturing works, which he controlled with success, and eventually to his connexion with the world famous A.E.G. Allgemeine Electrizitätsgesellschaft at the head of which he now stands. During the war he scored a very remarkable and exceptional success as controller of the organization for the supply of raw materials. He is thus not merely a scholar and thinker, but one who has lived and more than held his own in the thick of commercial and industrial life, and who knows by actual experience the subject matter with which he deals... Continue reading book >>