This study of the problems of decolonization after World War II demonstrates the power of the values and lines of argument that seemed to justify colonization, even among France's anticolonists, and helps explain why the French so stubbornly resisted the loss of their empire. Examining the responses of various intellectuals to a concrete set of problems, Sorum elucidates the importance and limits of the intellectual's role and treats numerous moral and practical issues of continuing concern today. Originally published 1977. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.