This book investigates the theoretical and practical divergences within Marxism that arose in opposition to the Leninist model. It presents a curated selection of influential writings from the council communist movement, a trend that flourished between the World Wars. These texts, featuring contributions from figures like Hermann Gorter, Anton Pannekoek, Sylvia Pankhurst, and Otto Ruhl, advocate for the democratic self-emancipation of the working class over centralized party and state control, offering an alternative to the Leninist approach.

The collection offers a vital counterpoint to dominant Leninist interpretations of Marxism, providing historical context for alternative socialist thought. The inclusion of key figures in council communism allows for a deeper understanding of intra-Marxist debates regarding party structure and revolutionary strategy. The book's focus on self-emancipation highlights a significant strand of socialist theory that prioritized decentralized worker control. Its publication in 2007 situates these historical debates within the post-Soviet era, prompting reflection on the enduring relevance of non-Leninist approaches to achieving socialist goals.