Catechism of the Industrialists

Introduction

Henri de Saint-Simon published the Catéchisme des industriels in four instalments in 1823–24, in the form of questions and answers. He argues that France is still governed by nobles, soldiers, lawyers and officials, although its wealth is produced by the “industrials” – a broad class of farmers, manufacturers, merchants, bankers and workers – together with the scientists. Power should pass to them peacefully, through the king, and government should serve production rather than domination. The third instalment was Auguste Comte’s essay on the scientific work needed to reorganise society, which Saint-Simon prefaced with reservations; the dispute ended the collaboration between Saint-Simon and his former secretary.

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• 1825New Christianity