Shaw was an ardent socialist and a devotee of the Fabian movement, a middle-class group dedicated to gradually and peacefully transforming Britain into a socialist state. Through the Fabians, Shaw, who was a founding member, pushed for the nationalization of essential production and services, equality of income, and compulsory employment, and eventually helped form the Independent Labour Party in 1893.

Although he held that “there was not a single established religion in the world in which an intelligent or educated man could believe,” Shaw’s adoption of socialism took on a religious fervor. He wrote tracts, gave speeches, engaged in debates, and produced myriad pamphlets—all infused with his signature wit and literary skill. He spoke on behalf of Fabian-endorsed candidates, regardless of their party, but turned down many appeals to run for a parliamentary seat. He did enter public service however; for six years between 1897 and 1903, he served as vestryman (a local councilor) of London’s St. Pancras district, and later, a member of the St. Pancras Borough council.