Bernstein Explores Class and Agrarian Change in 'Treasure Chest of a Book'
4 November 2010
Using Marx’s theory of capitalism, Class Dynamics of Agrarian Change argues that class dynamics should be the starting point of any analysis of agrarian change. It provides an accessible introduction to agrarian political economy while showing clearly how the argument for “bringing class back in” provides an alternative to inherited conceptions of the agrarian question. It illustrates what is at stake in different ways of thinking about class dynamics and the effects of agrarian change in today’s globalized world.
Henry Bernstein is Professor Emeritus of Development Studies in the University of London at the School of Oriental and African Studies and Adjunct Professor in the College of Humanities and Development, China Agricultural University, Beijing
"The most sweeping, original, and discerning class analysis of agrarian history in many decades…essential reading for any and all agraristas both inside and outside the academy."
- James C. Scott, Sterling Professor of Political Science and Anthropology; Director, Agrarian Studies, Yale University
"Bernstein shows that a ‘little book’ can be a tour de force. Decades of scholarship are lightly worn and compellingly revealed in this treasure chest of a book. It should be essential reading for all development students (whatever age) and activists (wherever they work)."
- Barbara Harriss-White, Director, Contemporary South Asian Studies Programme, University of Oxford
Publisher: Kumarian Press
August 2010
