DougPiranha422d ago

What instance has mostly reasonable moderate conservative/liberal people?

https://lemmy.world/post/44496431

What instance has mostly reasonable moderate conservative/liberal people? - Lemmy.World

I came here a few weeks ago after many years of reddit. Altogether I find discussions I enjoy, however, the posts and comments noticeably lean, well, tankie (I didn’t know that term before I came here). It’s not that I am looking for an echo chamber, but I also don’t want to spend my time reading propaganda. I’m really curious about a lot of things outside politics, as well as the opinions and arguments of reasonable people across the political spectrum, but I don’t want to listen to the boring canned lies of fascists and tankies. I realized that people celebrating communist dictators trigger me, and this is something I didn’t have to deal with before I started reading lemmy, I didn’t even know this type existed. I also notice that accounts created just a few hours in advance come from other instances to brigade political posts. Because of how lemmy works, I can block individual users or communities, but not individual instances. Is there an instance that could be a “safe space” from this kind of brigading and tankie spam? Or a way to use the internet to read interesting things now that blogs died and then Reddit became whatever it became?

Show threadmathemachristian [he/him]1d ago

goes on communist website built by communists that got kicked out of reddit i like this, but what about all those communists???

Show threadTronBronson1d ago
I’m still gonna pick on you communist but that’s after we’re done with the Nazis.
Show threadmathemachristian [he/him]1d ago

Friedrich Engels once said: “Bourgeois society stands at the crossroads, either transition to socialism or regression into barbarism.” What does “regression into barbarism” mean to our lofty European civilization? Until now, we have all probably read and repeated these words thoughtlessly, without suspecting their fearsome seriousness. A look around us at this moment shows what the regression of bourgeois society into barbarism means. This world war is a regression into barbarism. The triumph of imperialism leads to the annihilation of civilization. At first, this happens sporadically for the duration of a modern war, but then when the period of unlimited wars begins it progresses toward its inevitable consequences. Today, we face the choice exactly as Friedrich Engels foresaw it a generation ago: either the triumph of imperialism and the collapse of all civilization as in ancient Rome, depopulation, desolation, degeneration – a great cemetery. Or the victory of socialism, that means the conscious active struggle of the international proletariat against imperialism and its method of war. This is a dilemma of world history, an either/or; the scales are wavering before the decision of the class-conscious proletariat. The future of civilization and humanity depends on whether or not the proletariat resolves manfully to throw its revolutionary broadsword into the scales. In this war imperialism has won. Its bloody sword of genocide has brutally tilted the scale toward the abyss of misery. The only compensation for all the misery and all the shame would be if we learn from the war how the proletariat can seize mastery of its own destiny and escape the role of the lackey to the ruling classes.

This was Rosa Luxemburg in 1915. The regression into barbarism was brutal. Lets not lose sight of “the only compensation for the misery and all the shame”

Show threadTronBronson
It appears our bourgeois have decided barbarism is the way. Good Quote.
Mar 21 at 12:04pmWeb
Show threadmathemachristian [he/him]22h ago

No, you got the wrong message

The bourgeoisie don’t have the option to decide. They have to go with barbarism or there won’t be a bourgeoisie anymore. They cannot choose socialism ever, it’s scientifically impossible. They’d have to become class traitors first. Commit class suicide. Only then, when they are no longer bourgeoisie can they choose. Here is great excerpt of “Socialism: Utopian and Scientific” by Engels that talks about Robert Owen who experienced this first hand (and who eventually committed class suicide very much to his credit) www.marxists.org/glossary/people/o/w.htm#owen

Glossary of People: Ow

A page in the Encyclopedia of Marxism

Show threadTronBronson21h ago
Thank you for the explanation. I hadn’t had my first coffee yet. I catch your drift now.
Show threadmathemachristian [he/him]21h ago
oh not at all, it’s an easy mistake to make when someone isn’t versed in communist terminology.
Show threadTronBronson21h ago
I might have skipped the majority of communist theory except a few excerpts here and there. But I’m here to learn.
Show threadmathemachristian [he/him]21h ago
Here is a good study guide for the basics: lemmy.ml/post/43309494
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 :::