CURRENT LITERATURE.
History of Socialism. By Thomas Kirkup. (A. and C. Black.) —It is, of course, impossible to discuss the question of Socialism in these columns. It must suffice to say that Mr. Kirkup gives in his adherence to what he calls a " rational Socialism." , Ho thinks. that " society should control industry in its own interests." It must begin by realising the two ideals,—" the normal working, day," i.e., eight hours or less, and "a remuneration which will ensure a suitable standard of living." But how far is the eight- hours rule to reach, first in this country, and then outside it ?' And what is a " suitable standard of living "? Is it calculated for the Englishman or the Hindoo ? The historical part of Mr. Kirkup's book, though the writer regards the history from his, own point of view, will be found valuable. But why not a detailed account of the Socialistic experiments in the United Statgs P One of the two points here selected may be found treated at length in A Shorter Working Day, by It. A. Hadfield and H. de B. Gibbins. (Methuen).
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