DeepSummary
In this podcast episode, Brett O'Shea, a self-identified Marxist-Leninist, is interviewed by David Swanson on the podcast Radical Reflections to discuss and debunk common myths and criticisms about communism. Brett explains the difference between socialism and communism, with socialism being the transitional phase towards the ultimate goal of a classless, moneyless, and stateless society called communism.
Brett addresses various criticisms leveled against communism, such as the claims that it is similar to fascism, opposes human nature, promotes dictatorship, relies on state violence, and causes mass deaths. He provides counterarguments, historical context, and examples to refute these myths, arguing that many of these criticisms stem from capitalist and anti-communist propaganda.
The discussion also touches on topics like the evolution of Marxist theory, the importance of learning from history, the role of ideology, and the potential for communism to succeed. Brett emphasizes that communism aims to create a better world for the working class and future generations, and that it can only be achieved through relentless class struggle and organization.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Communism and socialism are not the same as fascism, and in fact, have entirely different goals and origins.
- Communism does not go against human nature, as humans are inherently productive and thrive in contributing to a community.
- Claims that communism promotes dictatorship and state violence often stem from capitalist propaganda and ignore the historical context in which communist movements arose.
- The alleged mass deaths attributed to communism are often exaggerated or misrepresented, and capitalism has also been responsible for immense violence and loss of life.
- Marxism is not a rigid dogma but an evolving science based on historical materialism, constantly adapting to changing material conditions.
- The success of communism is not predetermined or inevitable, but requires active struggle, organization, and the participation of the working class.
- Criticisms of uniformity and lack of individual expression under communism are often hypocritical, as capitalism itself promotes conformity through consumerism and exploitation.
- The supposed exodus of people from communist countries is often a result of the privileged classes fleeing the loss of their wealth and resources, rather than the working class seeking better conditions.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Marxism is an ongoing, open ended science of historical materialism, and dogmatism is the exact opposite of that.“ by Brett O'Shea
- “So in a lot of ways, the fact that the argument that communism doesn't comply with human nature is on its head. Human nature is deeply compatible with communism.“ by Brett O'Shea
- “So this idea of socialism or barbarism, I mean, our future could just as equally be barbaric climate dystopia as it could socialism. There's no predetermined historical path that says we're just going to wait it out and eventually we'll get to communism.“ by Brett O'Shea
Entities
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Episode Information
Revolutionary Left Radio
Revolutionary Left Radio
4/18/22
[Originally released Sept 2019]
David Swanson of Radical Reflections invites Breht on his show to tackle myths, lies, slanders, and popular criticisms wielded against communism by its (often times lazy and unimpressive) opponents.
Check out Radical Reflections here: http://www.radicalreflections.co.uk/
Follow them on Twitter @RadReflections
Outro music by Jarren Benton ft. EARTHGANG - Anarchy
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