Chomsky on Social Movements, interesting read

[Cosmic Kitten]

A Genuine Movement for Social Change

http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/27756-a-genuine-movement-for-social-change

It has always been taken for granted by radical thinkers, and quite rightly so, that effective political action that threatens entrenched social interests will lead to "confrontation" and repression...

<snip>

The opportunities for intellectuals to take part in a genuine movement for social change are many and varied, and I think that certain general principles are clear. Intellectuals must be willing to face facts and refrain from erecting convenient fantasies.

They must be willing to undertake the hard and serious intellectual work that is required for a real contribution to understanding. They must avoid the temptation to join a repressive elite and must help create the mass politics that will counteract - and ultimately control and replace - the strong tendencies toward centralization and authoritarianism that are deeply rooted but not inescapable.

They must be prepared to face repression and to act in defense of the values they profess. In an advanced industrial society, many possibilities exist for active popular participation in the control of major institutions and the reconstruction of social life.

[NYC_SKP]

1. "Reconstruction". I like it.

Or "Restore".

"Restore the soul of the Democratic Party", this is what we need to do unless we're looking to create a third party.

If we look at what made us best over the 186 years that there has been a Democratic Party and elevate those ideals, and identify our party's errors, then we have the recipe for reconstruction or restoration.

It's going to take courage and effort.

[sabrina 1]

2. Interesting article

I totally agree about never backing down when confronted about principles. People sometimes ARE intimidated by the bullying behavior of the 'centrist autoritarians'. Standing up to them is very necessary, and supporting others who do so is also important.

In a way, internet forums are a sort of microcosm of the real world. Practicing not backing away from principles no matter how many talking points they throw around in an attempt to intimidate people, can be done on internet forums. And doing it in a way that educates those reading, lurkers who often are intimidated gain confidence when they see others standing up for what they believe in without allowing the instigators to get them riled.

[Cosmic Kitten]

3. Skeleton Trap Defense

Taking Numbers