The Economic Consequences of the Peace · Theme
Social Upheaval and Revolution
How The Economic Consequences of the Peace develops Social Upheaval and Revolution.
The book warns that the economic devastation and starvation caused by the Treaty will lead to social collapse, political extremism, and revolution across Europe, as seen in the examples of Russia and Austria.
Where it surfaces
- Population
The chapter suggests that Russia's population explosion may have contributed more to its revolution than Lenin or the errors of autocracy.
- IV: The Relation of the Old World to the New
The war left Europe with a population in excess of available livelihood, destroyed organization, and impaired food supplies, risking social collapse.
- The Conference and the Terms of the Treaty
The economic collapse and financial instability described foreshadow social unrest and the rise of extremist movements.
- VI: Europe After the Treaty
The chapter warns that starvation and inflation may lead to revolution, citing Lenin's methods and the weakness of the capitalist class.
- VII: Remedies
Keynes warns that economic privation may lead to revolution, but notes that revolution offers no improvement for general suffering.
- Endnotes
The notes document the humanitarian catastrophe in Central Europe, with widespread disease, malnutrition, and suffering among civilian populations.