Truer words were never said by Karl Marx, the philosopher of hands and scientist of the social, than when he saw past the slavery and cathedrals of his day to the coming of the next world. People would not be cut to fit their machines, but would rend the world anew. The world is ever changing, the question is how.
For the first time in a generation, radicals have a chance to not just resist the advance of the ruling class, but to stand up on our own. Around the world, popular movements and insurgencies are challenging capitalism and empire with renewed vigor and occassional victories. America is losing its defining war. Neoliberalism is faltering. The sacred family has only its halo. The mythologies of liberal democracy are everywhere evaporating. When the rulers cannot rule in the old ways, we have a chance. The question is how.
Because this possibility exists doesn't mean that it will be easy or obvious. In the 87 years since the proletariat's first victory with the October Revolution, the struggle of common people to make their world anew has seen great triumphs and tragic defeats. And here we are with the world still burning. If we learn anything from the sacrifice of our forebears, it is that socialism is possible. The people can rule. The point being not that we need to recreate some debatable past, but that if we band together and fight with principle -- we can overcome anything. The question is how.
The Burningman web log will make its small contribution by focusing on the plans and activities of the revolutionary left with polemics, histories, interviews and breaking news. Longer articles will be linked to NYC Indymedia and the Indypendent.
All posts and comments represent the opinions of their author alone, unless otherwise stated.
Feedback and criticism are encouraged. Contributers are welcome to use their own name or post anonymously, but I do ask that all discussion happens in good faith.
Argument is oxygen. Bring the fire.
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