O idee care ne suceşte minţile

The book is widely praised for its ability to synthesize complex arguments against communist ideology in a clear, accessible, and engaging manner. Reviewers highlight its success in addressing both those already familiar with the topic and newcomers, offering solid and calmly presented yet firm arguments. Many readers found it eye-opening, providing a deeper understanding of communism's essence, its origins, propaganda mechanisms, and its links to other totalitarian doctrines. Despite its concise length, the volume is lauded for effectively tackling a vast subject and challenging the misconception that communism was a "good idea, poorly applied." The collection benefits from the distinct voices and intellectual approaches of its three co-authors, who, through their erudition, humor, and humanist perspectives, explore the subject from diverse angles, enriching the overall reading experience. The sections dedicated to exploring the philosophical underpinnings of communism and the West's differing perception of communist atrocities compared to Nazism are particularly commended for their depth and incisiveness.

While largely positive, a few criticisms emerge from the reviews. One reviewer felt that the writing style, at times, resembled "thoughts spoken aloud" rather than a fully structured text, although this was a minority opinion. Another specific point of contention was directed at one co-author's argument, suggesting it veered into a logical fallacy by dismissing certain criticisms solely based on their source rather than their intrinsic validity. Additionally, one reviewer expressed a general dissatisfaction with the perceived political leanings of Romanian intellectuals, viewing them as detached from the working class, which colored their reception of the book. Some parts, particularly the more philosophical sections, were also noted as being "slightly harder to follow," potentially posing a challenge for certain readers.

Overall, the book is considered a highly valuable and necessary read, earning strong recommendations from the majority of reviewers. It is celebrated for its ability to foster understanding and memory regarding the communist experience, serving as a crucial antidote to historical amnesia and the resurgence of utopian illusions. The book is particularly recommended for a broad audience: those who lived through communism and seek a deeper intellectual framework for their experiences, younger generations who might be unknowingly attracted to theoretical communist ideals, and anyone wishing to comprehend why this ideology, despite its documented horrors, still holds a certain appeal. It challenges prejudices, promotes realism, and provides a nuanced exploration of a complex and painful historical period, making it an essential contribution to contemporary discourse on totalitarianism.