socialist-economics: Fwd: Why socialists want more democracy

Thursday, May 23, 2019

Fwd: Why socialists want more democracy

I am of two minds on Pivenism: 1) more militancy, more actions in SUPPORT of broad based demands is good right now. It will take an upheaval + elections to even halt, nevermind reverse, austerity and fascism; 2) on the solutions and governing side, "be more militant" doesn't buy you much. Further, if US institutions continue their dysfunctional paths, what comes after the upheaval, at least for the near future, will not be very "democratic".

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From: Jacobin Roundup <publicity@jacobinmag.com>
Date: Thu, May 23, 2019 at 8:58 AM
Subject: Why socialists want more democracy
To: <johnwshc@gmail.com>

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Why socialists want more democracy

Socialists believe in deepening and expanding democracy, because that's the only way entrenched hierarchies can be challenged and, eventually, overturned. Our goal is to extend democracy into every area of public life—including the workplaces, where most of us spend the majority of our waking lives.

In this Roundup, you'll find updates from the champions of democracy on our side, including flight attendants union president Sara Nelson—and news about the right-wing assault on democratic rights, from Trump's United States to Bolsonaro's Brazil.

Forward

Capitalism is a threat to democracy

"Only direct action—or the threat of it—will move the boss." Sara Nelson, the flight attendants union president whose strike threat ended Trump's government shutdown, on building a fighting labor movement.

The historical record is clear: democracy was only won when poor people waged disruptive class struggle against the rich. We'll need more of it to save democracy today.

Filmmaker Astra Taylor: capitalism is the biggest threat to democracy today.

"Shout Your Abortion!" We have to fight back against the Alabama abortion ban and other draconian "heartbeat" laws.

If Jair Bolsonaro isn't stopped, Brazil may go down a far-right path of no return, writes Sabrina Fernandes. We need a political project strong enough to defeat him.

Did you miss...?

Republicans are yet again hurling accusations of antisemitism. We should recognize attacks on US Rep. Rashida Tlaib as disingenuous attempts to shut down voices on the Left.

Our case for Elizabeth Warren going on Fox News, despite how odious the venue is.

Capitalism's "meritocracy" is an attractive and convenient fiction. Elites invoke opportunity to obscure questions about the distribution of power and resources.

Hardship in the United States can't be blamed on China's "economic war" on democracy, writes Nicole Aschoff. China Is Not the Problem. Capitalism Is.

A British retailer is handing over ownership of the company to its workers. It's a reminder that democratic worker control can work—but don't expect many other firms to follow suit.

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