The Collected Papers of Bertrand Russell, Volume 26

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This volume covers a transitional period in Russell's political life, shifting from a staunch defense of the West in the early post-war years to advocating for nuclear disarmament and détente in the mid-1950s. The writings reflect a mix of earlier criticisms of Soviet expansionism and growing concerns about American foreign policy's recklessness and the negative impact of anti-communist hysteria on civil liberties. Russell's primary aim was to prevent a catastrophic war, navigating between fear and hope as he articulated his evolving political views. His work includes autobiographical reflections and practical advice for living well, presented through a variety of formats such as articles, letters, radio broadcasts, and a Nobel Prize acceptance speech. Additionally, he undertook two significant lecture tours in the United States and a notable visit to Australia. The volume provides an in-depth examination of these journeys, utilizing manuscript materials and unpublished correspondence from the Bertrand Russell Archives at McMaster University, offering a comprehensive look at this pivotal phase in Russell's life and thought.