obamacaresWhat is your preferred political ideology, and why?
Florencia (she/her)𝔣𝔢𝔲𝔡𝔞𝔩 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔬𝔠𝔯𝔞𝔱𝔦𝔠 𝔞𝔲𝔱𝔬𝔠𝔯𝔞𝔠𝔶
OP if you’re interested in learning more about politics try reading theory I recommend blackshirts and reds by parenti. reddit political compass memes aren’t accurate to reality
Sickos [they/them, it/its]
Mister NeonI want a Tlatoani. I want to be assigned a house in a neighborhood in an Altepetl.
Tabitha ☢️[she/her]I think the Earth is hollow and the USSR is hiding there.
QinShiHuangsShlongThe USSR is hiding out in Red Shambhala consolidating power to fight the fascists in the hollow earth.
LainTrainSyncretic collapse mongerer and socialist solarpunk AI utopian on the net 🌐
Democratic Socialist in bed 🛏️
I used to be something of an anarchist before the brainrot set in in my mid-20s.
Culturally I shill against luddism, degrowth, climate/animal/vegan/preservationist/NIMBYist shit.
I’m pro giant skyscrapers everywhere, mega buildings, mega cities, utilitarianism and brutalism in architecture, pro piracy, pro-gentrification, pro-alienating liminal spaces, pro-grid and anti-car city design, and pro AI democratising the artoid crafts to the masses.
In short: DLSS 5? Yes because it makes the games look objectively better in every way.
DLSS 1-4? No, because it adds smear and visual artifacting that brainwashed console children don’t see because they only watch slop shorts in 480p jpegs on they phone and have never played a real video game.
Hopefully we all transcend mortality soon, except the rich, who must be eaten.
I’m also for more vaping, more drugs (except weed and alcohol) and less slave morality amongst the proletariat.
isyasadThe crime of theft is depriving another person of a possession they have, the dynamics of piracy are completely different.
First - piracy is taking a copy of something that can be produced ad-infinitum. No actual thing is taken from anyone.
Second - the idea that it’s depriving someone of hypothetical income doesn’t hold because often times thing X being unavailable via piracy isnt going to mean the pirate is going to pay, they are just gonna pirate thing Y instead or even just get nothing at all.
Think about it - if dominos pizza was free, I’d eat it a lot more. I’d probably get fat, too, because it’s literally free so I’d eat more. But as it stands it isn’t, and I dont eat it. On the whole I probably eat less total than the amount I would eat if it were free.
The point is - the inherent abundance of digital goods is an inherent behaviour changer and introduces a completely different dynamic than what we’re used to IRL. The scarcity in the digital world is absurd and artificial and it’s stifling human potential to make the line go up.
And third, and this is adjacent - copyright is just absurd to me, it is deeply absurd to me that one could claim ownership over something immaterial as intellectual property in the first place, ideas are not things, they do not belong to anyone, it’s pure category error to suggest otherwise, imo. Not that obviously artists or scientists shouldn’t be credited for coming up with ideas or something but that’s a job for historians, not the police.
Intellectual property’s only benefit is that it really shines a light on how capitalism is not at all some inevitable product of human nature, but in fact requires heavy enforcement and ultimately a threat of violence (prisons) to protect the elite’s ownership of the means of production and the economy at large.
TiredTigerPolitics aren’t sports teams, and the political compass shit is just the sorting hat for (Western) Poli Sci majors.
I am a Marxist-Leninist with a lot left to learn (and read). I was a sort of ultra-left “Marxist” (firmly in compatible left territory) until I started lurking on here and reading comments by Cowbee and other comrades.
until I started lurking on here and reading comments by Cowbee and other comrades
oh cool, which “sub-lemmy” was that?
“community” or “comm” are the terms in general use
UristHere you go. Cowbee is just a regular user (or maybe rather a legend). Seems that you are moving in the right direction, but I would say that you have far to go still. Good luck!
Cowbee [he/they]Hey comrade, just want to mention that I made a new, cleaned up guide and that the one you linked is going to go through a major revision sometime in the future. And thanks for the kind words!
Marxism-Leninism Study Guide: Basic Course - Lemmy
The following is a guided study plan for Marxism-Leninism. This is not a comprehensive guide, and is instead meant to build solid fundamentals that you can carry on to the advanced course [https://lemmy.ml/post/22417306] if you wish to extend the depth of your knowledge. This guide is also meant to help you in your real life organizing work, and encourage you to get involved. This is not a history or evaluation of actually existing socialism (AES), nor will it cover advanced topics like cultural hegemony, colonialism, warfare, and so forth. Everything is made to be readable on a smartphone, with .epubs and audiobooks provided when available. The entire basic course is targetting 20 hours or less (I find Red Sails has higher estimates of reading times than is realistic), so it can be completed in 1-2 months of consistent self-study. Forming a study circle is also highly recommended, as is following this guide in the order it is presented, without skipping anything. At the bottom of this page, there are links to resources you can use while you go through this course, and an FAQ. Feedback is welcome! Let’s get started! *** ::: spoiler 1. Introduction [~30 min] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/15d74743-08a7-4043-8a53-a548ba2ec23a.jpeg] Before beginning your studies, it’s important to learn how to best economize our time, and why we should study Marxism-Leninism in the first place. 1. General Rules for Independent Study - N. Krupskaya Webpage [https://redsails.org/general-rules-for-independent-study/] [~5 min] Written by one of the founding Bolsheviks for students in the early USSR, this is a concise guide on how to best absorb the information to come as efficiently as possible by Nadezhda Krupskaya. 2. Why Socialism? - A. Einstein Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Why_Socialism%3F] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/6HASr3wjrVupTcH8v8YJYe] [~10 min / 22 min] Wanting to persuade his contemporaries to pursue a path of intentional development in order to avoid nuclear war and escape the profit motive, Einstein argues the case for moving onto a planned and collectivized economy over the chaos of markets and the profit motive. 3. Why Marxism? - R. Day Webpage [https://redsails.org/why-marxism/] [~15 min] Roderic Day makes his case for why now, in the 21st century, Marxism-Leninism remains the strongest tool for working-class liberation, and why we should defend the achievements of actually existing socialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 2. Fundamentals [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/d83d580c-712e-489d-bc68-3d41ce7dcf8b.jpeg] To start off your studies, a clear understanding of basic terminology, as well as the historical context that gave rise to Marxism, is necessary. 1. Principles of Communism - F. Engels Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/principles-of-communism/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8JtpMuYQ6Ho6gzYtLLuL4k] [~30 min /48 min] A glossary of terms and background information, in an FAQ format. 2. Karl Marx: A Brief Biographical Sketch with an Exposition of Marxism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Karl_Marx:_a_brief_biographical_sketch_with_an_exposition_of_Marxism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/e1i4GTHHNCShNCBvi7rA1F] [~1 hr / 1hr 28 min] Lenin, as a part of his rigorous studies of Marx and his writings for application in the conditions particular to his contemporary conditions, came to know and understand Marx and his ideology at a deeper level. 3. The Three Sources and Three Component Parts of Marxism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/The_three_sources_and_three_component_parts_of_Marxism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8yUvkgJ4m5ZHPdESAyjg8k] [~5 min / 18 min] Outlaying the 3 major components of Marxism, and a short history of how they came to be. ::: *** ::: spoiler 3. Philosophy [~2.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/9399af9f-1fe4-4551-9f9f-a4e4e3a1716b.webp] In order to better understand the later sections, we must understand Marx’s materialist outlook and dialectical method. 1. Dialectical and Historical Materialism - J.V. Stalin Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/dialectical-historical-materialism/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=k0tcZw37CS0] [~1hr / 1hr 42 min] A clear summarization of the fundamental components describing the materialist outlook, the dialectical method, and applying both to analyze the arc of history. 2. On Practice - Mao Zedong Webpage [https://redsails.org/on-practice/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=86RIzuWVsYA] [~30 min / 1 hr 9 min] One of the best primers on the Marxist-Leninist theory of the unity of theory and practice to inform correct understanding. 3. On Contradiction - Mao Zedong Webpage [https://redsails.org/on-contradiction/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=D2R2KMPx_sI] [~1 hr / 1 hr 57 min] Mao explores and elaborates on one of the most fundamental concepts in dialectical materialism, the contradiction. 4. Western Marxism Loves Purity and Martyrdom, but not Real Revolution - J. Manoel Webpage [https://redsails.org/western-marxism-and-christianity/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=3g3kOUL69v4] [~15 min / 22 min] Western Marxism is held back by cultural ties to purity and sacrifice, preferring the perfect socialism in our heads to real, existing and thus imperfect socialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 4. Political Economy [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/32e314fb-f331-47fb-a012-d2d7b34c7f75.jpeg] Using your newfound tool of dialectical materialism, let’s explore capitalism, it’s contradictions, and the class struggle between laborers and exploiters. 1. Wage Labor and Capital - K. Marx Webpage [https://redsails.org/wage-labour-and-capital/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/usbsMw2QhnCvZmAsqvewVg] [~1hr / 1 hr 37 min] Delivered as a speech to workers, Marx explains the fundamental struggle between labor and capital under capitalism. 2. An Extremely Condensed Summary of Capital - N. Frome Webpage [https://redsails.org/capital-v1-summary/] [~15 min] Nia Frome, taking inspiration from Marx’s Inferno, summarizes the key points of Capital Volume 1. ::: *** ::: spoiler 5. Scientific Socialism [~4.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/616d07d1-7363-4b8c-8d29-daab2a51f2bb.png] We must now move on to socialism, not as it exists purely in our heads, but as it comes into being as a consequence of human development and progression via contradictions in capitalism and the class struggle. 1. Socialism: Utopian and Scientific - F. Engels Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/socialism-utopian-and-scientific/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/e4z76sxWeBMnZKAQYBhSow] [~1.5 hr / 1 hr 48 min] Engels shows how the creation of dialectical materialism, and its application to social development, turned socialism from a practice of “utopia building” into a rigorous science. 2. The State and Revolution - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/The_state_and_revolution] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/6M8bL2HGs5rGXmvThU1JG5] [~3 hr / 4 hr] Lenin concretely explains the Marxist theory of the state, revolution, and how the state is to wither away. ::: *** ::: spoiler 6. Imperialism [~3.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/48419e4f-4ec7-47a7-9e16-2b977d4c592c.jpeg] Marxism lives on beyond Marx, but conditions have changed. Marxists have been carrying forward his work to use dialectical materialism in a new context, as capitalism transforms into its imperialist stage. 1. Imperialism, the Current Highest Stage of Capitalism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8STrUAEfwiFGRFcRsSNqtv] [~3 hr / 4 hr 20 min] The clearest explanation of imperialism, its origins, and its behavior today. As the principle contradiction the world over, understanding imperialism, how it works, and how we can end it forever is at the core of organizing work today. 2. Five Characteristics of Neoimperialism - Cheng Enfu Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Five_Characteristics_of_Neoimperialism] [~30 min] Lenin did not live to see the consolidation of imperialism into a single international dictatorship of the bourgeoisie, helmed by the US Empire. Cheng Enfu carries Lenin’s analysis forward, to the modern era of moribund neoimperialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 7. Leninism [~4.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/81174468-7606-4051-a908-0c1d7e36395c.jpeg] Leninism is where Lenin carried forward Marx’s analysis to the age of imperialism, as well as the strategies and tactics of the Marxist-Leninist party and organization. 1. Understanding Lenin - R. Day Webpage [https://redsails.org/understanding-lenin/] [5 min] Putting Lenin in his proper context, and not simply trying to find ready-made solutions in Lenin’s works, is how to properly apply his method to our present conditions. 2. Foundations of Leninism - J.V. Stalin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:The_foundations_of_Leninism] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=DkXFGW8XmPI] [~3.5 hr / 4 hr 53 min] Leninism, it’s historical origins, and its strategy and tactics, stance on nationalism vs internationalism, the role of the peasantry, and more. 3. What is to be Done? (Abridged) - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://redsails.org/witbd-rs-abridged/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/seGAATanGtfufEkQoLH1X3] [~1hr / 11 hr 17 min] (Note: Audiobook is the full original) The abridged version was chosen for its clarity, and for bringing its most relevant bits to the modern day. The full original is much longer, and requires much more historical context, but is linked in audiobook form. Lenin outlines the most pressing stances for the communists to take, and contrasts them with incorrect positions such as “economism” and “adventurism.” Useful for avoiding pitfalls in organizing work to this day. ::: *** ::: spoiler 8. Social Liberation [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/62c645ec-3e59-48e6-96cd-8a6b6345c8b8.jpeg] This is a grand struggle, for the liberation of all oppressed people. 1. The Women’s Liberation and Gay Liberation Movements - H.P. Newton Webpage [https://redsails.org/womens-liberation-and-gay-liberation/] [~5 min] As one of the founding members of the Black Panther Party, Huey P. Newton understood very well the importance of recognizing progressive social stuggle as deeply connected to the class struggle. 2. The Social Basis of the Woman Question - A. Kollontai Webpage [https://redsails.org/the-social-basis-of-the-woman-question/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=zP0hh3cYtoM] [~30 min / 42 min] As one of the leading Bolsheviks, Kollontai had a deep understanding of Marxism-Leninism as she applied it to the struggle for women’s liberation. 3. Transgender Liberation: A Marxist View - L. Feinberg Webpage [https://redsails.org/transgender-liberation/] [~ 1 hr] Leslie Feinberg struggled for queer rights as a Marxist for decades, elaborating in this work on the importance of extending social recognition and support to gender-queer struggles. ::: *** ::: spoiler Conclusion Congratulations on completing the course! For further reading, see the advanced course [https://lemmy.ml/post/22417306]. With the fundamentals and core under your belt, you can skip around the advanced course and use it more modularly, or you can go through the full advanced course from the beginning to advance to a higher level of understanding. Make sure to get organized, as well. It is not enough to merely read theory, you must put it to practice. Serve the people! Build up your community! Educate, agitate, and organize! You’re more than ready to do so at this point, so try to develop yourself and apply your unique skills and talents to the broader class struggle. We will win! ::: *** ::: spoiler FAQ ### Q: When should I read? A: I recommend reading at the same time daily, consistently, making it a part of your routine. It works even better if you can gather some like-minded comrades and form a study-circle, so that you can speak your thoughts and criticisms aloud. This isn’t strictly necessary, though, and reading on your own when your mind is fresh will get you great results. The audiobooks in particular are great for commutes or working out, though do remember to take notes when you can. ### Q: Where should I read? A: In a comfortable, well-lit area. Try to make it free from distractions. Ideally, with reference books and other learning tools. In a pinch, earbuds or headphones and instrumental music can help drown out noise, if you prefer reading on a commute or on break. ::: *** ::: spoiler Resources a. Theory ProleWiki [https://prolewiki.org/] - A robust library and wiki for Marxism-Leninism. Red Sails [https://redsails.org/site/] - “Woke ML-MZT Criterion Collection with home videos thrown in” Comrade’s Library [https://comlib.encryptionin.space/] - Excellent source for .epubs Qiao Collective [https://www.qiaocollective.com/] - Connecting western diaspora with Chinese political commentary b. Podcasts Blowback [https://blowback.show/] - Anti-imperialist podcast about the crimes of the US Empire. Rev Left Radio [https://revolutionaryleftradio.libsyn.com/] - Marxist-Leninist podcast centering theory, history, and current events The Deprogram [https://inv.nadeko.net/@thedeprogram9999] - Marxist-Leninist variety podcast c. News Liberation News [https://liberationnews.org/] - PSL’s newsletter Fight Back! News [https://fightbacknews.org/] - FRSO’s newsletter Dessalines’ Audiobooks [https://dessalines.github.io/essays/audiobooks.html] - More leftist audiobooks Naked Capitalism [https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/] - Economic newsletter centering capitalism’s decay :::
left-libertarian
Bro you do not need to let the capitalists own the means of production. You have nothing to lose but your chains.
Georgism is probably the best political stance - Lemmy
Hello folks, this is my first post ever on this Fediverse thing I just found out about Maybe it’s not so related to Georgism per se. I’m just really tired of big tech/governments censuring us in every way they can, and wanted a place to vent Reddit bans if your opinion does not match the subreddit’s opinions; Youtube and Google Maps shadow banning comments and reviews; Governments around the world imposing stupid af laws against free speech (cannot “offend”, cannot spread “fake news” whatever that means, etc) I don’t know, just need a breath of fresh air from all the narrive control being imposed on us from every corner, while people in charge kill others on a whim, amongst other atrocities. Sometimes I think if we had more people like Georgists (people who think of the common good, in a rational way, regardless of ideology) things would be so much better.
Yep, I also believe in georgism, but I don’t think that’s a political stance, more of a “where should taxes come from”
“I want my government to be funded by private enterprise” is absolutely a political stance
Yeah I guess who you tax is indicative of the political stance, is that what you mean? Georgism is about taxing land, so it’s kind of in the middle I guess, since everyone uses land, although it should affect the rich more, since the rich will usually own more land
“people can own land” is a political stance
A big Freikorps fan? Imperialist pillaging of the periphery isn’t a major issue in your mind so long as you get “your” cut of the spoils?
Drewit’s great that you are growing and evolving! there’s a lot of good reading (both short and long, light and dense) at:
- https://communalistlibrary.carrd.co/
- https://blacksocialists.us/resource-guide
I don’t agree with the lists categorizing socialism as “state capitalism” and trying to force Marxist analysis into an anarchist framework, when the conclusions of Marxism fundamentally point towards one unified system of collectivized production and distribution while anarchism is more about local communalism and horizontalism.
EntheoNautAnarcho-Community’ist fierce enemy of oligarchy in all its forms.
redrum
HanrahanHistorical anarchism isn’t the same as modern-day anarchism, though. As production and distribution became more complex, different forms of organization came about to suit the level of the productive forces, giving rise to class society. We cannot use historic hunter-gatherer anarchism as proof of modern-day anarchism working at scale, as the material conditions are entirely different. That is, unless you’re talking anarcho-primitivism, in which case I think being able to manufacture things like insulin is necessary.
Drewfro66150-or-so years ago, Karl Marx developed a scientific method for understanding socio-economics and translating common political goals towards collective action. Most of the conclusions he came to through this scientific method have borne out in the decades since, a few have not, but the method itself is, I believe, concrete.
As the years went on, additional theoreticians - especially Lenin and Mao - have further developed his theories.
But I think the key is to never be dogmatic - that different times call for different approaches, that sometimes you need forced collectivization, but sometimes you need the New Economic Policy. Sometimes you wage a protracted peasants’ war, sometimes you elect Sewer Socialists.
A lot of people can get too caught up in the tendencies and sub-tendencies. I believe that all Marxists should be part of a single Socialist political party where disagreements are handled internally by rigorous debate and elections among Communists.
gwl [he/him]Shrek is Love, Shrek is Life
It’s simple, it’s easy, it’s to the point
ordnance_qf_17_pounderI don’t adhere rigidly to any single political ideology beyond being a person of the left. I have supported both Marxist and social-democratic parties in the past. I place a great deal of importance on the goal of achieving political power to actually make a difference, as opposed to remaining perpetually in opposition & protest.
darkenergyI prefer to talk specifics about issues rather than adopt labels. Labels are often victim of whatever the other person thinks the label means. Once the labels come out, they can be conversation enders.
I still have a lot to learn and at times it’s overwhelming. I’m a socialist.
I do think labels are helpful for coming to a coherent understanding. Rejection of labels and focusing only on details can lead us to not notice how these details intersect and interconnect, leading to counterposed beliefs simultaneously held. Some people will reject the convo outright based on label, but these people likely aren’t going to be swayed anyways, and are looking for an excuse to end the convo. That’s why I just openly state that I’m a Marxist-Leninist, it helps explain my views in a more concrete way than needing each bit to be teased out over the course of a convo.
IRL though I tend to not bring up that I’m an ML unless I am at a protest or event or otherwise trust the person deeply.
I’m a Marxist-Leninist! Not really based on “preference,” though, but on the overall coherence and practicality of Marxism-Leninism. I agree with the dialectical materialist method, Marxist economics, the Leninist analysis of imperialism and organization, and socialism as a scientific field. I support AES states (Actually Existing Socialism, where public ownwrship is the principal aspect of the economy and the working classes control the state), including the PRC, Cuba, Vietnam, DPRK, Laos, and Venezuela (which is more almost AES IMO but on the right track).
One thing I would suggest is viewing the state not as something outside class struggle, but deeply involved within it. The state under capitalism has a bourgeois class character, it exists to reinforce capitalism and keep the working classes suppressed. Under socialism, however, the state exists to keep the working classes on top, and this is necessary as we gradually collectivize production and distribution to establish communism. This is the Marxist conception of the state, and how we can achieve statelessness realistically by eroding the basis of the state, class struggle.
If you want a place to start with Marxism-Leninism, I made a basic Marxist-Leninist study guide. Feel free to check it out!
Marxism-Leninism Study Guide: Basic Course - Lemmy
The following is a guided study plan for Marxism-Leninism. This is not a comprehensive guide, and is instead meant to build solid fundamentals that you can carry on to the advanced course [https://lemmy.ml/post/22417306] if you wish to extend the depth of your knowledge. This guide is also meant to help you in your real life organizing work, and encourage you to get involved. This is not a history or evaluation of actually existing socialism (AES), nor will it cover advanced topics like cultural hegemony, colonialism, warfare, and so forth. Everything is made to be readable on a smartphone, with .epubs and audiobooks provided when available. The entire basic course is targetting 20 hours or less (I find Red Sails has higher estimates of reading times than is realistic), so it can be completed in 1-2 months of consistent self-study. Forming a study circle is also highly recommended, as is following this guide in the order it is presented, without skipping anything. At the bottom of this page, there are links to resources you can use while you go through this course, and an FAQ. Feedback is welcome! Let’s get started! *** ::: spoiler 1. Introduction [~30 min] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/15d74743-08a7-4043-8a53-a548ba2ec23a.jpeg] Before beginning your studies, it’s important to learn how to best economize our time, and why we should study Marxism-Leninism in the first place. 1. General Rules for Independent Study - N. Krupskaya Webpage [https://redsails.org/general-rules-for-independent-study/] [~5 min] Written by one of the founding Bolsheviks for students in the early USSR, this is a concise guide on how to best absorb the information to come as efficiently as possible by Nadezhda Krupskaya. 2. Why Socialism? - A. Einstein Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Why_Socialism%3F] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/6HASr3wjrVupTcH8v8YJYe] [~10 min / 22 min] Wanting to persuade his contemporaries to pursue a path of intentional development in order to avoid nuclear war and escape the profit motive, Einstein argues the case for moving onto a planned and collectivized economy over the chaos of markets and the profit motive. 3. Why Marxism? - R. Day Webpage [https://redsails.org/why-marxism/] [~15 min] Roderic Day makes his case for why now, in the 21st century, Marxism-Leninism remains the strongest tool for working-class liberation, and why we should defend the achievements of actually existing socialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 2. Fundamentals [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/d83d580c-712e-489d-bc68-3d41ce7dcf8b.jpeg] To start off your studies, a clear understanding of basic terminology, as well as the historical context that gave rise to Marxism, is necessary. 1. Principles of Communism - F. Engels Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/principles-of-communism/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8JtpMuYQ6Ho6gzYtLLuL4k] [~30 min /48 min] A glossary of terms and background information, in an FAQ format. 2. Karl Marx: A Brief Biographical Sketch with an Exposition of Marxism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Karl_Marx:_a_brief_biographical_sketch_with_an_exposition_of_Marxism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/e1i4GTHHNCShNCBvi7rA1F] [~1 hr / 1hr 28 min] Lenin, as a part of his rigorous studies of Marx and his writings for application in the conditions particular to his contemporary conditions, came to know and understand Marx and his ideology at a deeper level. 3. The Three Sources and Three Component Parts of Marxism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/The_three_sources_and_three_component_parts_of_Marxism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8yUvkgJ4m5ZHPdESAyjg8k] [~5 min / 18 min] Outlaying the 3 major components of Marxism, and a short history of how they came to be. ::: *** ::: spoiler 3. Philosophy [~2.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/9399af9f-1fe4-4551-9f9f-a4e4e3a1716b.webp] In order to better understand the later sections, we must understand Marx’s materialist outlook and dialectical method. 1. Dialectical and Historical Materialism - J.V. Stalin Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/dialectical-historical-materialism/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=k0tcZw37CS0] [~1hr / 1hr 42 min] A clear summarization of the fundamental components describing the materialist outlook, the dialectical method, and applying both to analyze the arc of history. 2. On Practice - Mao Zedong Webpage [https://redsails.org/on-practice/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=86RIzuWVsYA] [~30 min / 1 hr 9 min] One of the best primers on the Marxist-Leninist theory of the unity of theory and practice to inform correct understanding. 3. On Contradiction - Mao Zedong Webpage [https://redsails.org/on-contradiction/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=D2R2KMPx_sI] [~1 hr / 1 hr 57 min] Mao explores and elaborates on one of the most fundamental concepts in dialectical materialism, the contradiction. 4. Western Marxism Loves Purity and Martyrdom, but not Real Revolution - J. Manoel Webpage [https://redsails.org/western-marxism-and-christianity/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=3g3kOUL69v4] [~15 min / 22 min] Western Marxism is held back by cultural ties to purity and sacrifice, preferring the perfect socialism in our heads to real, existing and thus imperfect socialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 4. Political Economy [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/32e314fb-f331-47fb-a012-d2d7b34c7f75.jpeg] Using your newfound tool of dialectical materialism, let’s explore capitalism, it’s contradictions, and the class struggle between laborers and exploiters. 1. Wage Labor and Capital - K. Marx Webpage [https://redsails.org/wage-labour-and-capital/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/usbsMw2QhnCvZmAsqvewVg] [~1hr / 1 hr 37 min] Delivered as a speech to workers, Marx explains the fundamental struggle between labor and capital under capitalism. 2. An Extremely Condensed Summary of Capital - N. Frome Webpage [https://redsails.org/capital-v1-summary/] [~15 min] Nia Frome, taking inspiration from Marx’s Inferno, summarizes the key points of Capital Volume 1. ::: *** ::: spoiler 5. Scientific Socialism [~4.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/616d07d1-7363-4b8c-8d29-daab2a51f2bb.png] We must now move on to socialism, not as it exists purely in our heads, but as it comes into being as a consequence of human development and progression via contradictions in capitalism and the class struggle. 1. Socialism: Utopian and Scientific - F. Engels Webpage/.epub [https://c.encryptionin.space/epubs/socialism-utopian-and-scientific/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/e4z76sxWeBMnZKAQYBhSow] [~1.5 hr / 1 hr 48 min] Engels shows how the creation of dialectical materialism, and its application to social development, turned socialism from a practice of “utopia building” into a rigorous science. 2. The State and Revolution - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/The_state_and_revolution] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/6M8bL2HGs5rGXmvThU1JG5] [~3 hr / 4 hr] Lenin concretely explains the Marxist theory of the state, revolution, and how the state is to wither away. ::: *** ::: spoiler 6. Imperialism [~3.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/48419e4f-4ec7-47a7-9e16-2b977d4c592c.jpeg] Marxism lives on beyond Marx, but conditions have changed. Marxists have been carrying forward his work to use dialectical materialism in a new context, as capitalism transforms into its imperialist stage. 1. Imperialism, the Current Highest Stage of Capitalism - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Vladimir_Lenin/Imperialism,_the_highest_stage_of_capitalism] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/8STrUAEfwiFGRFcRsSNqtv] [~3 hr / 4 hr 20 min] The clearest explanation of imperialism, its origins, and its behavior today. As the principle contradiction the world over, understanding imperialism, how it works, and how we can end it forever is at the core of organizing work today. 2. Five Characteristics of Neoimperialism - Cheng Enfu Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:Five_Characteristics_of_Neoimperialism] [~30 min] Lenin did not live to see the consolidation of imperialism into a single international dictatorship of the bourgeoisie, helmed by the US Empire. Cheng Enfu carries Lenin’s analysis forward, to the modern era of moribund neoimperialism. ::: *** ::: spoiler 7. Leninism [~4.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/81174468-7606-4051-a908-0c1d7e36395c.jpeg] Leninism is where Lenin carried forward Marx’s analysis to the age of imperialism, as well as the strategies and tactics of the Marxist-Leninist party and organization. 1. Understanding Lenin - R. Day Webpage [https://redsails.org/understanding-lenin/] [5 min] Putting Lenin in his proper context, and not simply trying to find ready-made solutions in Lenin’s works, is how to properly apply his method to our present conditions. 2. Foundations of Leninism - J.V. Stalin Webpage [https://en.prolewiki.org/wiki/Library:The_foundations_of_Leninism] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=DkXFGW8XmPI] [~3.5 hr / 4 hr 53 min] Leninism, it’s historical origins, and its strategy and tactics, stance on nationalism vs internationalism, the role of the peasantry, and more. 3. What is to be Done? (Abridged) - V.I. Lenin Webpage [https://redsails.org/witbd-rs-abridged/] | Audiobook [https://tankie.tube/w/seGAATanGtfufEkQoLH1X3] [~1hr / 11 hr 17 min] (Note: Audiobook is the full original) The abridged version was chosen for its clarity, and for bringing its most relevant bits to the modern day. The full original is much longer, and requires much more historical context, but is linked in audiobook form. Lenin outlines the most pressing stances for the communists to take, and contrasts them with incorrect positions such as “economism” and “adventurism.” Useful for avoiding pitfalls in organizing work to this day. ::: *** ::: spoiler 8. Social Liberation [~1.5 hr] [https://lemmy.ml/pictrs/image/62c645ec-3e59-48e6-96cd-8a6b6345c8b8.jpeg] This is a grand struggle, for the liberation of all oppressed people. 1. The Women’s Liberation and Gay Liberation Movements - H.P. Newton Webpage [https://redsails.org/womens-liberation-and-gay-liberation/] [~5 min] As one of the founding members of the Black Panther Party, Huey P. Newton understood very well the importance of recognizing progressive social stuggle as deeply connected to the class struggle. 2. The Social Basis of the Woman Question - A. Kollontai Webpage [https://redsails.org/the-social-basis-of-the-woman-question/] | Audiobook [https://inv.nadeko.net/watch?v=zP0hh3cYtoM] [~30 min / 42 min] As one of the leading Bolsheviks, Kollontai had a deep understanding of Marxism-Leninism as she applied it to the struggle for women’s liberation. 3. Transgender Liberation: A Marxist View - L. Feinberg Webpage [https://redsails.org/transgender-liberation/] [~ 1 hr] Leslie Feinberg struggled for queer rights as a Marxist for decades, elaborating in this work on the importance of extending social recognition and support to gender-queer struggles. ::: *** ::: spoiler Conclusion Congratulations on completing the course! For further reading, see the advanced course [https://lemmy.ml/post/22417306]. With the fundamentals and core under your belt, you can skip around the advanced course and use it more modularly, or you can go through the full advanced course from the beginning to advance to a higher level of understanding. Make sure to get organized, as well. It is not enough to merely read theory, you must put it to practice. Serve the people! Build up your community! Educate, agitate, and organize! You’re more than ready to do so at this point, so try to develop yourself and apply your unique skills and talents to the broader class struggle. We will win! ::: *** ::: spoiler FAQ ### Q: When should I read? A: I recommend reading at the same time daily, consistently, making it a part of your routine. It works even better if you can gather some like-minded comrades and form a study-circle, so that you can speak your thoughts and criticisms aloud. This isn’t strictly necessary, though, and reading on your own when your mind is fresh will get you great results. The audiobooks in particular are great for commutes or working out, though do remember to take notes when you can. ### Q: Where should I read? A: In a comfortable, well-lit area. Try to make it free from distractions. Ideally, with reference books and other learning tools. In a pinch, earbuds or headphones and instrumental music can help drown out noise, if you prefer reading on a commute or on break. ::: *** ::: spoiler Resources a. Theory ProleWiki [https://prolewiki.org/] - A robust library and wiki for Marxism-Leninism. Red Sails [https://redsails.org/site/] - “Woke ML-MZT Criterion Collection with home videos thrown in” Comrade’s Library [https://comlib.encryptionin.space/] - Excellent source for .epubs Qiao Collective [https://www.qiaocollective.com/] - Connecting western diaspora with Chinese political commentary b. Podcasts Blowback [https://blowback.show/] - Anti-imperialist podcast about the crimes of the US Empire. Rev Left Radio [https://revolutionaryleftradio.libsyn.com/] - Marxist-Leninist podcast centering theory, history, and current events The Deprogram [https://inv.nadeko.net/@thedeprogram9999] - Marxist-Leninist variety podcast c. News Liberation News [https://liberationnews.org/] - PSL’s newsletter Fight Back! News [https://fightbacknews.org/] - FRSO’s newsletter Dessalines’ Audiobooks [https://dessalines.github.io/essays/audiobooks.html] - More leftist audiobooks Naked Capitalism [https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/] - Economic newsletter centering capitalism’s decay :::
OwlThis is a nice post to expand my blocklist (people worshipping humanity’s biggest mass murderer etc…
Not sure how this answers the question, or why you’re announcing blocking people. You can just do that quietly, it sounds like you’re just trying to provoke people.
AeriToo many labels out there. Ask me my opinion on any issue and I will tell you honestly. I took a quiz once and it said I was a filthy socialist.
I wouldn’t trust quizzes when it comes to political ideology. Quizzes try to take your latent beliefs and force them into categories, but these beliefs may be contradictory. Ideologies (in theory) attempt to proceed from a given baseline, and find correct answers given that baseline. For example, Marxism and its various tendencies all proceed from the acceptance of dialectical materialism, the scientific approach to socialism, and Marxist economics as the basis. A quiz may think someone is a Marxist, even if they don’t actually agree with any of those, assuming they have similar policy preferences.
I am a pragmatist. My decisions on issues are entirely based on context. Right now I believe we need government services for necessary things to increase because the free market isn’t providing them due to misaligned incentives, and if we don’t want to live in a complete shithole world that needs to change. Absolutely nothing is preventing us from living in a complete shithole. There’s no higher power out to save us. So we better step up and organize to save ourselves.