Originally published in June of 1850, this book which is now more than one-hundred fifty years old is still one of the most popular books published. The author, Frederic Bastiat was a statesman and French economost. At the time of this writing, French was quickly becoming a socialist state. This work by Mr. Bastiat studies, explains and critiques each socialist policy which he witnessed in his role in the French legislative assembly. This text is a valid read today as these socialistic beliefs are still used in the modern French government and the United States of America. This text should be a required reading for those who study political science, civics, government and law or those who are employed in government.