Proudhon p. j.

1840 · 051 — <b>4 works in 1 volume Octavo. Contemporary quarter calf over marbled paper boards with decorative gilt motif on the spine & marbled endpapers. Half-titles present. a few minor interior blemishes but contents generally clean. A very good copy. Second edition of the French anarchist philosopher's notorious thesis together with the first editions of his two succeeding works the "deuxième" and "troisième" memoirs. Qu'est-ce que la propriété was first published in 1840 and shocked its readership with its famous assertion that "all property is theft" which remains widely cited among radical circles to this day. Proudhon himself referred to Qu'est-ce que la propriété as a "diabolical work which frightens even me" Correspondence I p. 296 and he was called to defend himself against insurrection charges at his local court immediately after its publication. The distinguished economist Blanqui 1805-1881 was appointed by the Minister of Justice to read Proudhon's inflammatory treatise and his review of it was partially reproduced by Le Moniteur on 7 September. Although he opposed the views that Proudhon adopted Blanqui's judgement was ultimately favorable because he believed Proudhon to be a philosopher and inquirer rather than a serious revolutionary. Blanqui's verdict helped to lessen the insurrection charges brought against Proudhon and it was only because of his support that Proudhon was permitted to keep his stipend. The second work in this volume is Proudhon's grateful response to Blanqui's review where he reacts to some of the reviewer's objections and offers some moderate revisions to his first work. Both works are scarce both institutionally and in commerce especially so bound together. Lastly the uncommon Explications Au Ministere Public 1842 is also bound in. Housed in a custom oatmeal colored cloth slipcase with chemise and leather label.</b> Librairie de Prévot hardcover