[lbo-talk] Contradictions of contemporary working class consciousness

[c b]

> -----------
>
> Perhaps. But at least consider the possibility of exactly the reverse being
> true. Working-class militancy increased in the 1960s and early 1970s;  it
> has decreased as conditions have worsened. It seems mere dogmatism rather
> than real historical analysis to assume that higher living standards
> promote
> satisfaction, lower living standards the opposite.
>
> Militancy requires free time.
>
> Carrol
>

^^^^^^^^^
CB  On the other hand, there was more militancy and radicalism in the trade
union movement in the Depression of the 1930's than in the 1950's or 70's .

The key thing with respect to leadership is that the Communists were purged
under McCarthyism from trade union leadership. Walter Reuther led it. A
Democrat, Truman , was President. Communists have a class struggle trade
union philosophy.  Social Dems and Dems like Reuther do not.

In this sense, left critiques of trade union leadership's opportunism is
valid.


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