What is discourse?
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troutsky 1:40 pm on March 28, 2009 | #
I would like to discuss the question that NY radio DJ asked Harvey: Is this THE crisis which will usher in profound change? For me this question is better situated as :what can we (the Left) reasonably hope will change? Sounds like an Obama add, I know but optimism has been so rare.
Discursively I see more questioning about the logic and ideology of capitalism. I see more definition, such as the difference between social democracy, democratic socialism, communism, etc.being explained for the first time in broad media. People are trying to incorporate anarchist/ syndicalist/ libertarian notions about hierarchy and authority, the State and society etc. Latin movements seem to have a great influence as well as Albert and Hahnels work.
On the praxis front I see possible gains towards healthcare, pensions, and other social spending but mostly State based . The sharp edge of Market ideology is being rounded but not overthrown. While Marx says the point is not to interpret but to change, I agree with Zizek that some interpretation is in order.I personally work on the Labour front through the IWW. The analysis needs modification but it is a nodal point for organizing long term and who doesn’t love Joe Hill?