The Theory of the Four Movements

This remarkable book, written soon after the French Revolution, has traditionally been considered one of the founding documents in the history of socialism. It introduces the best-known and most extraordinary utopia written in the last two centuries. Charles Fourier was among the first to formulate a right to a minimum standard of life. His radical approach involved a systematic critique of work, marriage and patriarchy, together with a parallel right to a sexual minimum. He also proposed a comprehensive alternative to the Christian religion. Finally, through the medium of a bizarre and extraordinary cosmology, Fourier argued that the poor state of the planet is the result of the evil practices of civilisation. Translated into English for the first time, this classic text will be of particular interest to students and scholars of the history of sexuality and feminism, political thought and socialism.

• First English translation of the complete text • Interdisciplinary interest; history of sexuality and feminism, as well as history of political thought

Introduction; Principal events in Fourier’s life; Brief note on further reading (in English); Translator’s introduction; Theory of the four movements and of the general destinies; 1808 Introduction; First part; Second part; Third part; Omitted chapter; Note A; Advice to the civilised; 1818 Introduction.