Saying No to Capitalism at the Millenium

Abstract

Saying No to capitalism has traditionally been the point of departure for socialist movements - including social democracy and the universe of groups to its left, 'the Left' of this essay. Doing so credibly has involved connecting fundamental critique of the capitalist system with an alternative vision of socialism. The act of saying No to capitalism has been historically and materially conditioned, varying with the stage of capitalism. Since World War II capitalism has changed tremendously, moving from the post-war boom to today's crisis and reconfiguration. In each moment of this evolution the Left has had to reconsider its ideas and practices. At present, the Left's ability to say No is in crisis. The circumstances of the Left's existence have changed dramatically, as have the questions the Left must answer. This essay tries to analyze the sources and nature of this crisis and the opportunities that it presents.