posted
Well First, socialism is rooted in conflict theory, as such, the economic principles behind it are very important. Economics determine wealth, wealth determines power, and since those are what are so in need of conflict, the economics become front and center.
Yes, economics have changed much since the writings of the Communist Manifesto. Yet, they've only become more stratified. The workers are becoming more exploited (even in America) and those who control the means of production are becoming even wealthier.
The boom and bust thing, as well, is true. Not that it is important in Marxism, as economic low points are typically measured by the bourgious. But yeah, depressions still do occur. Look at the "Asian Miracle." Typically, economic "prosperity" lasts for only about 20 years at a time. Well, when was the last recession? The early 90s, if I remember. I know we all want to block out the Reagan-Bush Years, but yeah, we did have a recession lately. Now, if we all want to think that because we now have a "great" economy in this country that it will last that way forever, that's fine. But they were the Roaring Twenties for a reason.
Simon: You're still here?
------------------ "Don't have a mind" - Kurt Cobain Breed, Nirvana
posted
Okay, I'm being exploited. I can fathom this, despite the fact that I have twice as much assets as I did this time last year, and despite the fact that my day-to-day exploitation takes place at the HANDS of the working and non-working classes, rather than alongside them.
What I don't get is how human nature is going to change enough to end this. We're ALL users, to some extent or another. Babies cry to get more milk. Politicians say things to get your vote. People make statements of dubious veracity so that you'll support them. Exploitation is ingrained in the human psyche, if not in the human genome. This seems to me to be the reason why very few revolutions historically have not replaced the disposed elite with a new one just as bad. Subversion from within is more dangerous than subversion from without, to most ideals such as this.
------------------ Calvin: "No efficiency, no accountability... I tell you, Hobbes, it's a lousy way to run a Universe." -- Bill Watterson
posted
One is forced to wonder, if Sol is a raving, right-wing reactionary, what that makes me.
DT:
Most people who know anything about the 80's would rather block out Bush-Clinton than Reagan-Bush. Regan gave us an incredible economy. Bush's dealing with the Dems gave us a recession. And let's not get started on Clinton.
------------------ You are wise, witty, and wonderful, but you spend far too much time reading this sort of trash.
posted
Well, rather than play Omega's little game, I'll leave. First, if you'd like to email me, please do so we can continue this discussion. Likewise, anyone else interested in a mature, adult discussion can.
Obviously, this precludes our litle Reagan wannabe child.
------------------ "Don't have a mind" - Kurt Cobain Breed, Nirvana
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