The Duties of Man and Other Essays

by Giuseppe Mazzini

At the time of his death in March of 1872, The Times of London recorded that "We have to announce to-day the death of a man who in his time has played a most singularly part upon the theatre of European politics; on whose name has for years been regarded as a symbol of revolution." Giuseppe Mazzini's name today is not nearly as familiar to modern readers as he was to avid readers of the mid-Victorian age for his name was virtually synonymous with the revolutionary spirit. To his countrymen, he wrote of the innate duties of man toward God, Country and Humanity. Included in THE DUTIES OF MAN AND OTHER ESSAYS is Mazzini's passionate viewpoint on the political inevitability of The French Revolution of 1789 as well as giving the Italian "workingman" a taste of his revolutionary political ideology on the fundamental rights of individual conscience. GIUSEPPE MAZZINI, 1805-1872, was an Italian nationalist and patriot, who, together with Giuseppe Garibaldi, Camillo Benso di Cavour, and Victor Emmanuel II, is considered one of the "patron saints" of the Italian Risorgimento. He committed himself passionately to the cause of Italian independence and unity, and as a result, was forced into exile in 1831 for his revolutionary activities. His association, Giovine Italia (Young Italy), founded in the 1830s, attracted adherents throughout the country and among Italian political exiles everywhere. No other Italian Risorgimento leader (with the exception of Giuseppe Garibaldi) enjoyed greater international renown in his time for his revolutionary vision of Italian national unity.

Paperback

First published December 1, 1955

Reviews

[Jay Mehta · Rating 3 out of 5]

In "Duties of a Man", Giuseppe Mazzini presents a powerful case for a society built on duty rather than individual rights. He critiques the doctrine of individual rights, asserting that the success of society depends on the fulfillment of duties by its members. He contrasts "men of rights" with "men of duty," highlighting how societal progress requires collective responsibility.

Mazzini's work, while deeply rooted in his Catholic faith, argues for religion as a guiding force in politics. He advocates for a common faith and duty towards God, which forms the foundation for a unified society. His emphasis on positive duties bears an uncanny resemblance to the Hindu doctrine of "Karma", though his Eurocentric focus leads to some statements that would be considered outdated and imposing today.

One of the most challenging aspects of the book is its incoherent discussion on duty towards humanity. However, the way Mazzini places this duty above the duty to one's country, sort of punctures the allegation of "nationalism" on his thoughts. His advocacy for freedom of religion, juxtaposed with the need for one sole law, feels contradictory.

The chapter on "Education" stands out as the most coherent and insightful, emphasizing its role in shaping individuals for collective societal good. Though Mazzini's ideas shaped modern nationalism, some elements of the book raise questions, especially his assertion that liberty is the negation of any authority that does not align with the collective aim of the nation—a term he leaves frustratingly vague. Despite these flaws, "Duties of a Man" remains a thought-provoking text for those interested in the intersection of politics, morality, and duty.

[Dominic S-C · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Mass production should make the masses self-sufficient, not reliant."

[Cristina Contilli]

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