El poder

What is the key to understanding human nature? Whereas for Marx it was wealth, and for Freud sex, for Bertrand Russell what defines our condition is power. Not only is it the ultimate objective of our actions, but it also constitutes the most decisive element for the development of our societies. In the late 1930s, when various ideologies were tearing Europe apart and the world was on the brink of a devastating war, Russell was trying to establish a "new science" that would integrate knowledge such as history, sociology and philosophy to account for the traumatic events of the time. The philosopher assumed the totalitarian desire for power, but showed that, nevertheless, there are other forms of power, more rational and intelligent, that can lead to peace. The result of his reflections was this extraordinary book, a passionate defense of the independence of spirit and the instinctive will for harmony of men, which is as valid today as the day it was written.