The Incompatibles

Reviews of the new Penguin book, The Incompatibles, have ranged from the "rave" notice in Tribune to the extremely hostile survey in New Statesman. This book, which was published in association with the New Left Review, has therefore already made its mark: one can hate or love it but not ignore it. The incompatibles are trade union militancy and the consensus politics of Wilson. The editors, Robin Blackburn and Claude Cockburn, have assembled a series of articles which argue out,in an exhaustive and thorough manner, all the aspects of this contradiction. Of special note in these articles are Robin Blackburn's examination of the "Unequal Society" and Ken Coate's devastating analysis around the theme of "Wage Slaves". But don't get me wrong; all the articles in this book, each in their different way (show extremely well-thought-out editorial planning) are important and must be studied by serious socialists. I have to say, quite frankly, that I belong to "rave" camp in the controversy about this book. Moreover, I believe it to be of such importance that its contents should be discussed in a systematic and organised manner. I would recommend those on the left who want to give an ideological underpinning to their opposition of Wilson's policies, to organise schools and conferences around The Incompatibles. The Incompatibles is available at most bookshops, but if you have difficulty in obtaining it, Pioneer Book Service, 8 Toynbee St., London E.1 will supply you with one for 6/6d. (post paid).