Subject: [OPE-L:1711] Re: value-form theories and the Uno-school?
From: Gerald Levy (glevy@pratt.edu)
Date: Mon Nov 22 1999 - 07:50:43 EST
Re Paul C's [OPE-L:1710]:
> On the other hand we will never understand capitalism unless we approach
> it from the standpoint of the future communism.
I think it is idealist to assert that the way we can understand today is
by comparing it to some ideal standard which has never existed in
actuality.
> It is only this which enabled
> marx to transcend the historically specific and partial presentations put
> forward by the political ecnomists.
Certainly, his theory was developed in the context of his being a
revolutionary socialist - a communist. Yet, there were others socialists
and anarchists of his time and before who had a "vision" of communism who
were not able to develop an understanding of capitalism.
> It strikes me that the value form theorists, with their
> fixation on capitalism and its surface appearances are again producing the
> sort of historically limited presentation that he was attacking.
Before one can understand the future in heaven, one must first
understand life on earth today (and beforehand).
Moreover, a certain "fixation" with capital has its advantages. Not only
is it necessary to comprehend "modern society", but it also is important
from a revolutionary perspective: "Know thy enemy".
In solidarity, Jerry
PS: I am reminded of a poem.
*Know thy enemy*
by
Christopher Logue
Know thy enemy:
he does not care what colour you are
provided you work for him
*and yet you do!*
he does not care how much you earn
provided you earn more for him
*and yet you do!*
he does not care who lives in the room at the top
provided he owns the building
*and yet you strive!*
he will let you write against him
provided you do not act against him
*and yet you write!*
he sings the praises of humanity
but knows machines cost more than men.
Bargain with him, he laughs, and beats you at it;
challenge him, and he kills.
Sooner than loose the things he owns
he will destroy the world.
SMASH CAPITAL NOW!
*But as you hasten to be free
And build your commonwealth
Do not forget the enemy
Who lies within yourself*.
This archive was generated by hypermail 2a24 : Sun Dec 12 1999 - 17:29:15 EST