I like words. I think words are important. We use a lot of leftist terminology here, with same words having different meanings for different people. I'd be interested in hearing how you personally understand the following terms:

  • leftist, socialist, communist (as an ideology or society)
  • state
  • praxis
  • tankie

No need to do all of them, even just one is great, but please use your own words. Your views are especially appreciated if they are not based on reading theory or if they differ from the norm.

Feel free to also suggest your own words to be discussed.

  • hauntingspectre [he/him]
    ·
    4 years ago

    Leftist, as an American term, essentially includes everyone who disagrees with the neoliberal economic consensus and believes the economy should instead be controlled (the extent to which of defines the more specific branch of leftism) directly for the public benefit of all. "Of all" is the part that separates out right wing populism/fascism, which must have out groups that do not benefit.

    State - honestly, I tend to go with the old "political monopoly on legitimate violence" definition, even though I'm sure that's wildly out of date.

    Praxis - actions taken consistent with and in furtherance of leftist political ideologies. Doesn't have to be intentional? (Maybe it does, I'd be curious what other people think)

    Tankie - people who unironically read Grover Furr and think he's a legitimate historian.

    • a_jug_of_marx_piss [he/him]
      ·
      4 years ago

      I think praxis has to be intentional, but not necessarliy have the desired effect. Good praxis is praxis that accurately realises theory, even if it fails to achieve its goals. That just means the theory needs to be changed, and the praxis was necessary to know this. Unintentional praxis could not be used to change theory.