The Need for an Independent Socialist Working-Class Movement Rather Than the Lesser-Evil Option is the Way Forward

Socialist Strategy 1 Minute

John Clarke, former major organizer of the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty, recently posted the following on Facebook:

I’m working on an article on the Trump indictment and it seems to me that the whole issue is tailor made when it comes to revealing the inadequacies of liberal perspectives.

First of all, the refrain is that a noble and precious ‘democracy’ is under threat by a monstrous manifestation of authoritarianism. Trump does certainly represent something very dangerous. He reflects an impatience with the restraints of liberal democracy on the part of a section of the US establishment. He also expresses aspirations of a reactionary social base that includes overtly fascist elements. However, while the defence of democratic rights is essential, the subordination of working class struggle, during periods of crisis, to an alliance with those politicians who want to preserve representative government (and capitalism along with it) has a long history of preparing terrible defeats.

The other aspect of liberal disorientation that leaps out is the degree to which Trump is presented as an inexplicable ogre who came from out of nowhere. Actually, this vile man personifies a political volatility that is deeply rooted in society and not confined to the US. The weakening hegemonic power is a particular factor and the conflict within the ruling establishment is exceptionally sharp in the US but instability within systems of political representation is playing out in a number of countries.

The reactionary rage of a large minority of the population is buffeting the parties of mainstream conservatism, while those of the political centre preserve support and legitimacy with great difficulty. Their present place as a dubious lesser evil can’t provide any lasting solution. The very real danger that has emerged on the right can only be contained and defeated by a greatly strengthened working class movement.
I will add that indulging the social-democratic or social-reformist left is also no longer viable since it impedes the formation of an independent socialist working class.
Unknown's avatar

Published by The abolitionist

I come from a working-class background. My lost paid job was a teacher, substituting for a number of years before obtaining a permanent position. I obtained my doctorate in 2009. I am an unapologetic critic of capitalism and the way in which various institutions and ideologies reinforce it.

Published