SHACHTMAN Meaning and
Definition
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Shachtman is a noun that refers to a person who adheres to the political beliefs and ideas espoused by Max Shachtman. Max Shachtman (1904-1972) was an American Marxist and political activist who played a significant role in the development of Marxist theory and socialist politics in the 20th century.
The term "Shachtman" is often used to describe individuals who ally themselves with Shachtman's political philosophy, which can be characterized as a version of Trotskyism. Shachtmanism, as it is commonly recognized, is an ideology that emerged from within the International Communist movement and represents a break from traditional Marxism-Leninism.
Shachtmanists advocate for revolutionary socialism and the overthrow of the capitalist system through a workers' revolution. However, they reject the authoritarianism and centralized control often associated with Marxist-Leninist regimes, as well as the belief in the one-party state. Shachtmanists typically emphasize the importance of democracy, workers' control, and a multi-party system as fundamental tenets of socialist society.
The term "Shachtman" can also be employed neutrally to refer to individuals who engage in the study of Shachtman's theories or are interested in the broader history of Trotskyism. However, it is worth noting that the use of this term can sometimes carry negative connotations, particularly among more traditional Marxist groups who view Shachtmanism as a deviation or betrayal of orthodox Marxist principles.
