'Boris Kagarlitsky is a man of enormous intellect, knowledge and bravery. He has done so much for the ordinary people of Russia, including in his campaign for socialism, democracy and peace. His unjust imprisonment is a chilling attack on free speech - and his courageous words must be heard. I've always been stimulated by discussions with Boris and his relationship with thoughtful figures all around the world. Boris represents Russia's future, not that of the oligarchs and greed.'

• Jeremy Corbyn MP

'This gloomy book will depress everyone who reads it. A willingness to confront our miserable circumstances honestly and directly, though, may be exactly what the Left needs to build itself into a force that can win.'

• Jodi Dean, author of 'The Communist Horizon’

'This brilliant and profound book is likely to become a classic. Boris Kagarlitsky brings his formidable, clear-eyed analytical power and immensely readable style to what may become the definitive assessment of the Soviet experiment and its aftermath. In the process he also provides insights into decaying democracy under neoliberal capitalism. A major work by this courageous and committed scholar.'

• Jayati Ghosh, University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA