ABSTRACT
The reestablishment of feudalism in East Europe was rationalized. The survival of feudal claims on serfs is an anachronism, not serving any great social purpose but objectional only to the most able and adventuresome. Nevertheless, the underlying power structure of feudalism could be at odds with economic reality. In West Europe, this was the case during the 15th century and this set the stage for a class war between the landed aristocracy and urban bourgeosie. The modern era became characterized by a shift of power to manufacturing and trade, whence it lost its feudal character on political as well as economic grounds. A reflection of economic conditions is afforded by population trends. Urban population should continue to decline or, as feudalism spreads, decrease as a proportion of rural population.
