Politics and Symbols
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The Italian Communist Party and the Fall of Communism
David I. Kertzer
Out of Print
Those who seek dramatic political change, Kertzer contends, must remake history. He recounts how those who succeeded in transforming the PCI into the new Democratic Party of the Left effectively used ritual and manipulated political symbols. Bringing the views of Antonio Gramsci, Pierre Bourdieu, Michel Foucault, and other political thinkers into his discussion, Kertzer explores theoretical issues involving the relation between symbolism and political power, concluding that modern politics is fundamentally a struggle over symbols and the redefinition of history.
"The book is very well written and carefully argued. Its analytical and theoretical dimensions are modest, which may prompt critical responses from the more theoretically minded students of political symbolism. Yet this theoretical simplicity is also a virtue; the work is particularly suitable for undergraduates, who need to be introduced to current thinking about the relationship between culture and politics."—Jan Kubik, American Journal of Sociology
"Kertzer's book should be read by all political scientists, whether they are specialists in Italian communism or comparative European politics, or are interested in party behavior in general. . . . Kertzer provides welcome food for thought. Strongly recommended for general audiences, specialists, and students."—Choice
"The powers of symbols, the magical power of words: Kertzer’s book offers an extraordinary illustration of the formidable impact of words and signs in the political universe."—Marc Abeles, L’Homme
"The story which unfolds is rich in drama and pathos, and David I. Kertzer tells it with great flair."—Donald Sassoon, Times Literary Supplement
"An intriguing, well written, and provocative book that deserves to find a readership beyond specialists in Italian history and politics."—Alexander De Grand, Political Science Quarterly
"David I. Kertzer in Politics and Symbols develops an interesting and informative account of the demise of the Italian Communist Party."—Richard W. Wilson, World Politics
"Highly readable and lively. . .this book has important implications for the dynamics of contemporary political change in many places where Communist parties once dominated or were strong."—Jane Schneider, City University of New York
Publication Date: July 24, 1996