Question 31

This book was the third largest bestseller of its time. It influenced a large number of intellectuals and appears by title in many of the major Marxist writings of the day.

It is said and I quote here "It is one of the few books ever published that created almost immediately on its appearance a political mass movement."

The book tells the story of a Julian West, a young American who, towards the end of the 19th century, falls into a deep hypnosis induced sleep and wakes up one hundred and thirteen years later. It is the year 2000, and while he was sleeping, the US has been transformed into a socialist utopia. The remaining of the book outlines Bellamy's thoughts about improving the future.

Major themes in the book are the dangers of the stock market, benefits of a socialist legal system, music, and the use of an "Industrial Army" to make tasks smoother. In the book, Bellamy has also predicted sermons and music being available at home through "cable telephone"

Although Bellamy's book did not discuss technology or the economy in detail, commentators frequently compare the book with actual economic and technological developements, the most important being the first ever mention and introduction of X, by virtue of which all citizens receive equal "credit". For example, those with difficult, dangerous jobs work less hours. A remarkable book considering the time when it was written. Identify both X and The book.

Answer: Looking Backard, in which the term Credit card is first mentioned.