LEFT COMMUNIST Meaning and
Definition
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A 'left communist' is a term used to describe individuals or groups that adhere to a specific political ideology which has developed from the broader Marxist and socialist traditions. Although it encompasses a range of perspectives, left communism is generally situated on the extreme left of the political spectrum and emphasizes a critique of both liberal democracy and more mainstream socialist movements.
Left communists argue that socialism can only be achieved through a complete overthrow of the capitalist system, rejecting the idea of using parliamentary means to achieve socialist goals. They maintain that historical events such as the Russian Revolution and subsequent emergence of the Soviet Union did not lead to genuine socialism, but rather established a new form of state capitalism, which they view as a betrayal of the revolutionary spirit.
Furthermore, left communists strongly critique various aspects of the traditional Marxist theory, such as the role of the state in the transition to socialism and the notion of a revolutionary vanguard party. They contend that such elements ultimately lead to dictatorship and bureaucracy and believe in the need for decentralized, grassroots revolutionary action directly led by the working class.
Overall, left communism represents a radical strand within socialist thought that highlights the importance of autonomy, class struggle, and a rejection of existing forms of socialism, seeking to build a genuinely egalitarian and stateless society.
Etymology of LEFT COMMUNIST
The term "left communist" emerged in the early 20th century within the broader spectrum of Marxist and communist ideologies. Its etymology can be understood by breaking down the individual components of the phrase.
1. Left: "Left" refers to the political left, which is commonly associated with progressive or radical ideals. In the context of communism, "left" implies a more radical or extreme position within the spectrum of Marxist thought.
2. Communist: "Communist" refers to the ideology of communism, which aims for a classless society where the means of production are collectively owned and controlled. Communism originated from the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in the mid-19th century.
Therefore, the term "left communist" essentially refers to individuals or groups who identify with a more radical or extreme perspective within the broader communist movement.
