Populism (as shown in *The Progressive Populist*

[Max Sawicky]

cc:
Various analyses of populism habe been offered on this list
in the past, but as I was reading through this issue of *The
Progressive Populist* (January 1-15, 2000) it came to me
that we had perhaps overlooked yhr most characteristic attribute
of its current manifestations: Profoundly Dull. Moreover, two
of the dullest contributors were two writers who have been
widely praised (including by themselves) for avoiding the
dullness which is said to characterize leftist discourse --
Jim Hightower and Michael Moore. . . .
I think we can define "Modern Populism in the U.S." as the mask
liberal Democrats wear between elections to avoid being too
embarassed in front of their radical friends.
Carrol
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Try writing two columns a week that actually aim
to engage the common reader and see how you do.

While I disagree w/these two fellows on a lot of
things, they have done quite a bit for the cause
of popularizing radicalism/social democracy/
socialism in the U.S.

"Modern populism" is quite a few different things.
For instance, it's Jimmy Hoffa, Gary Bauer, Ralph
Nader, and Doug Henwood.

Some who invoke the term are really liberals or
radicals with a gimmick or a drawl.  A modern
redefinition that is constructive and authentic
remains to be accomplished.  Not unlike "marxism-
leninism," tho in the latter case the job is not
worth the effort, except perhaps as a recreational
pursuit.

mbs