This is the academic left at its best—well researched, critical pieces dealing with the history and practices of the left, primarily in the U.S. but with a strong emphasis on other parts of the world as well. The use of panels and discussions to show the diversity of opinions within the left helps break down the sectarian barriers of the partisan left. Pieces on globalization and recent protests are balanced by historical articles and lengthy analysis of the work of researchers such as Richard Rorty and Adolf Reed. (BB)