The Condition of the Working Class in England

Book Review

«The Condition of the Working Class in England» by Friedrich Engels is a foundational study that made a significant contribution to the socio-economic literature of the 19th century. Critics note that Engels describes the living and working conditions of the working class in England during the Industrial Revolution with remarkable accuracy and detail. He uses extensive statistical data, personal observations, and contemporary testimonies to reveal the appalling conditions faced by workers. Engels not only records the facts but also analyzes the causes of the workers' plight, linking them to the capitalist system of production. Critics emphasize that the book had a substantial influence on the development of Marxist theory and became an important source for subsequent research in sociology and economics. Some reviewers point out that, despite its historical significance, Engels' work may be perceived as one-sided, as it focuses predominantly on the negative aspects of industrialization, without considering possible positive changes. Nevertheless, «The Condition of the Working Class in England» remains an important historical document that continues to engage researchers and readers seeking to understand the social and economic processes of that time.