What makes some communes work, while others fail? Why is it so difficult to put utopian ideals into practice? In this exciting study of the success or failure of nineteenth-century American Utopias and twentieth-century communes, Rosabeth Moss Kanter combines the results of her first-hand experiences in a variety of contemporary groups with her thorough research on earlier Utopian communities. Convinced that the Utopias of the past offer important models for social organization today, the author also stresses the need for a historical perspective in viewing contemporary movements. Kanter analyzes the ideas and values expressed and developed in communal living, she explores the methods of organization that led to commitment and success or failure in the nineteenth-century, and she deals with the dilemmas and problems that contemporary communities present. The final chapters of this brilliant study, a discussion of contemporary communes, allows the reader to see the similarities as well as the differences between nineteenth and twentieth-century communities.

A magnificent book. -- Lewis Coser The strength of his book is in its imaginative concept, original insight and historical competence...will certainly be widely read and hotly discussed. -- Harvey Cox

About the Author
Rosabeth Moss Kanter is Professor of Sociology and of Organization and Management, Yale University.

Reviews
A magnificent book. -- Lewis Coser
The strength of his book is in its imaginative concept, original insight and historical competence...will certainly be widely read and hotly discussed. -- Harvey Cox



Book Information
ISBN 9780674145764
Author Rosabeth Moss Kanter
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Harvard University Press
Publisher Harvard University Press
Weight(grams) 404g