Product reviewsThe Ragged Trousered Philanthropists by Robert Tressell (Paperback, 2012)

Compulsive reading for all who despair for a fair society

A great book, a real page turner. The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists shows clearly that as far as fairness in society goes, nothing much has changed in a hundred years or so. I t also shows that the working class are often their own worst enemies by stabbing each other in the back instead of sticking together to beat the common enemy; the greedy capitalists. Men are worked into an early grave,working long hours in dreadful conditions for slave wages and forced to compete with each other in accepting even lower wages to secure fleeting employment. Despite the awfulness described in the book there is lots of humour and lots of wisdom. It is a fairly weighty tome but it is not a difficult read.
This is my favourite book EVER. I have read it many times and have bought several copies over the years to pass on to others. Once you've read it, keep it,as you will almost ceratinly go back to it but buy another two copies & pass them on to friends or colleagues.
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My favourite book

Quite simply the finest book I have ever read. It changed my outlook on life, and I will be eternally grateful to my old History teacher Martin Cross for recommending this, and Walter Greenwood's 'Love on the Dole'. I keep buying copies of Ragged because I am continually giving them to people.....Read full review...

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explains the inherent greed of capitalism

Explains the irony of work and the money game, Also the book highlights clearly how wealth is far more protected than human life. While these topics are generally dull reading, this book brings the consequences of the system into life with relatable interesting human players. On the downside it is exasperating that the majoity of the very poorly paid accept their lot,doff their caps to their "betters" and dont bring about change, both then and now.Read full review...

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Story of yesterday applies to todays political and economical shortcomings.

This story reveals the various human attitudes that prevail today and help to explain the mess we are in by not confronting lies and merely expect everyone else to realise what they are and ignore them.
Hard pressed workmen unable to accept what they are told for fear of not fitting in and losing their employment which is their only means of survival.
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Good story with great characterization. Would appeal to socialists.

I'm on my third reading. Excellent book.

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Brilliant

This book is compelling socialist reading, it will make you sad it will make you happy, it will make laugh it will make you cry. Takes you back to a time before the national health and and abject poverty. Read it !!!Read full review...

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first class read, must not miss this one.

wonderfully realistic, a real life experience from days gone by and the apparent birth of the Labour Party.

Enjoyable reed

A wonderful account oh how the system works and its effects on people. Amusing descriptive and fun also.

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lightweight reading a good dip in book, not a cliff hanger.... pleasant company

a classic

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Need more copies for the uninitiated!

My favourite book ever! Sending as a present because it needs to be read by everyone who can read! As relevant today as it was when it was written. ❤️

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