On the Poverty of Student Life: Considered in Its Economic, Political, Psychological, Sexual, and Especially Intellectual Aspects, With a Modest Proposal for Doing Away With It

The original manifesto that launched the Situationist International (SI) is back, with the story of its creation and the histories of its publication told like never before. This new edition highlights the global underground circulation and brings attention to the common conditions of students, workers, and anti-imperialist resistance in the world of the sixties. It features the original English adaptation by former SI member Donald Nicholson-Smith, an interview with primary author Mustapha Khayati, and essays about the political relevance of the manifesto.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2022
Publisher: Common Notions

The manifesto that catapulted the Situationist International (SI) into the public spotlight and ignited a revolutionary fervor is now available in a newly revised and expanded edition. This captivating narrative delves into the genesis of the manifesto and its historical publication, offering a fresh perspective on its significance.

Prior to the publication of Guy Debord's philosophical masterpiece Society of the Spectacle and the occupation of Paris universities in May 68, the Situationist International was a relatively unknown revolutionary art group. However, a pamphlet titled "On the Poverty of Student Life" sparked a scandal that would eventually transform into a global uprising.

"On the Poverty of Student Life" was a powerful document that recognized and articulated the alienation experienced by students and youth. Its impact was further amplified by the manner in which it was printed and distributed. Supporters of the SI, driven by their commitment to the cause, misappropriated school funds to produce and distribute 10,000 copies of the pamphlet. From there, the message spread like wildfire, with dozens of editions being produced by worker- and student-run printing presses across the globe, spanning from Paris to East London, Tokyo, and Detroit.

This revised edition of "On the Poverty of Student Life" highlights the global underground circulation of the manifesto and brings attention to the shared experiences of students, workers, and anti-imperialist resistance during the tumultuous sixties. By presenting the original English adaptation by former SI member and renowned translator Donald Nicholson-Smith, an interview with the primary author Mustapha Khayati, who traces his journey from colonial Algeria to imperial France to the university and the streets, and essays exploring the political relevance of the manifesto both then and now, this edition offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the manifesto's legacy.

In addition to the textual content, this edition is adorned with beautiful photographs of nearly one hundred distinct editions, providing a captivating cartography of world uprisings. Whether you are an ardent student of history, a passionate advocate for social change, or simply someone seeking to broaden your understanding of the past, this book is a must-read. It serves as a testament to the power of ideas and the enduring relevance of the Situationist International's vision for a more liberated and equitable world.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781942173571