I know that the Communist Manifesto is always mentioned in politics, but what, if any, other literature should I read first if I want to understand Communism? I consider myself a Socialist at the moment, but can’t really get behind the statelessness of Anarchism.
In terms of actual theory Principles of Communism by Engels is probably the best entry point imo.
Other than that Black Shirts and Reds by Parenti is usually the most recommended for newer people. Has a bit of theory in there iirc, does a terrific job at addressing some of the most prevalent anti-communist talking-points and is overall just a nice, easy to read, comprehensive introduction.
After this, I would add State and Revolution by Lenin if you’re (OP) interested in the (initial) necessity of a state. It’s quite short.
On Authority too
Absolutely; it’s just an essay/article but it’s very good
Critique of the Gotha Programme will help you understand some of basic stuff about communism. Marx himself clarify some of the wrong base assumptions.
Principles of Communism, Socialism: Utopian and Scientific, State and Revolution, Historical and Dialectical Materialism
Engels, Lenin and Stalin explain fundamental concepts very well. Can’t say much about Mao, I have only read the Red Book to far.
Mao is incredible, probably the best writer out of them all. Explains very difficult concepts incredibly simply and succinctly.
Michael Parenti and Mao Zedong books are the easiest ones for begginers, then there is lenin and Stalin, and Marx and engels are for the most experienced and interested on the most technical and economical side of things. There is some good books writed by other socialists and revoluctionaries, and an personal favorite of mine is the che guevara biography writted by jon lee anderson.
The first few books on this list are good starters. Socialism Utopian and Scientific, Principles of communism, state and revolution, and blackshirts and reds would probably be the ones I’d recommend starting out.
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marxism-femboyism is a level of dialectics so high that not even the most accomplished scholars can comprehend it.
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Idk? maybe Das Kapital?
