This book investigates the complex relationship between Marxist thought and various irrationalist philosophical and psychological currents of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. John F. Lewis, drawing on historical context and philosophical analysis, examines how Marxist thinkers grappled with, critiqued, or sometimes incorporated ideas that emphasized instinct, will, or subjective experience over rationalism. The work explores the intellectual tensions and dialogues that arose from this engagement, particularly concerning the nature of human motivation and social change.

The book is likely to appeal to scholars and students of political theory, philosophy, and intellectual history. Its focus on the intersection of Marxism and irrationalism suggests a deep dive into complex theoretical arguments and historical context. The work probably offers a nuanced perspective on how Marxist thought evolved in response to challenges from non-rationalist perspectives, contributing to a richer understanding of the ideological landscape of the period.