# VI: The Failure of Russian Industry explained — The Practice and Theory of Bolshevism > Chapter companion for The Practice and Theory of Bolshevism by Bertrand Russell. ## What happens Russell analyzes the catastrophic collapse of Russian industry under the Bolsheviks, attributing it to dependence on foreign expertise, sabotage, and the failure of industrial conscription and militarized labor. He notes the desperate measures taken by the Ninth Congress of the Communist Party—such as compulsory labor service and registration of skilled workers—and argues that without outside economic assistance, the revolution's survival is doubtful. The chapter also critiques the Entente's justification of its hostile policy toward Russia by pointing to the country's industrial weakness. ## Themes in this chapter ### Individual vs. State The state imposes compulsory labor service and suppresses individual freedom to escape industrial collapse, as seen in measures against labor desertion. ### Hope vs. Reality Early revolutionary hopes fade as industry fails and tyrannous regulations become necessary, highlighting the gap between ideals and desperate circumstances. ### Methods of Transition to Socialism The Bolsheviks resort to militarization of production and conscription of skilled workers, moving far from original revolutionary ideals. ## Character check-ins ### Lenin Implied as leader behind the policies discussed, though not directly quoted. ### Kerensky Mentioned as a prior cause of industrial disorganization under his government. ### Marx Referenced indirectly through the phrase 'Scientific Socialism' in the Congress resolution. ## Key lines > In a shipwreck all hands must turn to, and it would be ridiculous to prate of individual liberty. In an emergency, collective effort is necessary and individual freedom becomes irrelevant. _Russell justifies the Bolsheviks' harsh measures as a response to extreme crisis._ > If a man is deprived of food and drink, he will grow weak, lose his reason, and finally die. This is not usually considered a good reason for inflicting death by starvation. But where nations are concerned, the weakness and struggles are regarded as morally culpable, and are held to justify further punishment. Starvation is not seen as a justification for further punishment in individuals, but nations are judged differently—their suffering is used to justify continued hostility. _Russell criticizes the Entente's hypocrisy in blaming Russia for the consequences of blockade and intervention._ > The Congress considers the elucidation for the wide masses of the workers of the tremendous character of the economic problems of the country to be one of the chief problems of industrial and general political agitation and propaganda; and of equal importance to this, technical education, and administrative and scientific technical experience. The Party sees educating workers about the scale of economic challenges as crucial, alongside promoting technical and administrative expertise. _Highlights the Bolshevik recognition of the need for skilled specialists despite ideological opposition._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_practice_and_theory_of_bolshevism_se/chapters/vi-the-failure-of-russian-industry - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_practice_and_theory_of_bolshevism_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_practice_and_theory_of_bolshevism_se/chapters