The book examines the contemporary relevance of the last 30 years of Tolstoy's life. To understand this period, he needs to be regarded as a philosopher and social reformer. His “conversion” was a growing realization that the social system was unjust and oppressive and that the church, far from speaking out against it, sanctified it. He sought to relate Christian principles not only to the spiritual development of the individual but to the way in which society was organized and run. Tolstoy predicted unless there was economic reform, there would be a cataclysmic disaster—the First World War proved him right.

Review

“This is a most timely book.” — New European

“A carefully researched but clear account of the three main strivings in Tolstoy's life: religious, social and economic.” — The Friend

“The central theme of this work is Leo Tolstoy's advocacy of Henry George's ideas in his quest for a better world order.” — Land and Liberty

About the Author

David Redfearn was a Quaker dedicated to the idea that war could be eradicated.