> but even then it cannot gain
> unless during the slump whatever scattered left there is around has
> grouped itself around a non-electoral program (program, not merely verbal
> posturing) and sharply differentiated itself from such enemies as the
> Democratic Party.
Why --apart from marxist dogma--necessary, absolutely imperative--that the left group itself around a "non-electoral program"? What are the criteria you are using to differentiate an electorally selected party that adheres strongly, if not , mainly to socialist/Marxist principles? I think I know the answer you will provide, but I think it is wrong. To think so and be right, however, are two different things. Are you willing to question this assumption about electoral politics to engage in some form of dialog? It certainly does not seem apparent that electoral politics is _a priori_ incapable of bearing or even embodying revolutionary consciousness and action.
chuck miller
-- http://www.users.uswest.net/~bautiste/index.htm