Aneurin Bevan (1897–1960)

The most depressing thing about re-reading this book, is that, although it was written in the early nineteen fifties, Bevan sees so many of the flaws in twenty-first century life.

The book is probably most famous for its explanation of the National Health Service, set up by Bevan. This is interesting, but of more interest, is his ability to perceive the dangers of consumerism, a trend that had hardly started, particularly in post war Britain and Europe. Bevan is also able to dismiss the Soviet Empire as a short term abomination, in a way that, had the USA, would have saved much money and sole searching.

We have lost passion politics in Britain. I am reminded of a Private Eye cartoon, 'How government has developed' which site three stages from Leadership to Management and finally, to Compliance. Bevan even for sees this (the progression, not the cartoon!)

This is a book to re-visit on a regular basis.… (meer)