Books

First abridged edition, first impression. The publication price was around a quarter of the original, and represented the book in its cheapest and most fragile form. As a result, surviving copies are uncommon. "To this Preface of the original edition, published in March 1944, only a few words need be added in explanation of the present abridged edition. Although a cheap edition of the complete book has already been issued... many friends have urged on me the desirability of a shorter and still cheaper edition for those who can spare neither the time nor the money for the longer book. In addition, war-time restrictions still make it impossible fully to meet the demand for the complete version and by cutting the length of the book by about one-half, twice the number of copies can be produced from a given stock of paper. When, finally, a friend even offered to prepare for me the abridgement... I accepted... I hope that by the process of condensation the book has also become easier to read, though the problems with which it deals are inevitably difficult and for their adequate treatment the original book would have to be made much longer rather than shorter" (p. 8). Octavo. Original white paper wrappers lettered in blue. Wrappers neatly reglued, contemporary ownership signature to half-title, a little worn and toned as usual; a good copy. Cody & Ostrem B-6.

"The Road to Serfdom," written by Friedrich Hayek in 1944, is a seminal text that critiques centralized economic planning and collectivism. Hayek argues that state control over the economy inevitably leads to a loss of personal freedoms and the rise of authoritarianism. He emphasizes the importance of free markets and individual liberty as essential defenses against the encroachment of totalitarian rule. The book remains a powerful discourse on the relationship between economic systems and political freedom, warning of the dangers of surrendering too much power to the state.