(Episode 200!) Exploring the Complex World of Trotskyism, Part 2: Factionalism and Entryism

Aug 17, 2023

Chris and Jason from Regrettable Century join the podcast to explore the complex world of Trotskyism. They discuss the origins and factionalism of Trotskyism, the role of major figures like Churchill and Stalin during World War II, and the decline of Trotskyism in the United States. They also delve into the influence of key organizations and individuals on American Trotskyism, such as the International Socialist League and Leon Trotsky himself. The podcast covers topics like bureaucratic collectivism, entryism, and the four key doctrinal pillars of Trotskyism. They explore the decline of Trotskyism in the US, discussing the impact of corporate publishing and the lack of worker's parties. Additionally, they challenge notions that fractures within Trotskyism are a result of low stakes in Marxist movements.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Understanding the Origins and Complexity of Trotskyism

03:09 • 16min

Deformed Worker State vs Bureaucratic Collectivism

19:06 • 8min

The History of the Socialist Workers Party

26:58 • 20min

The Influence and Reach of Trotskyism

47:12 • 16min

Exploring Stalinism and its Impact on the Soviet Union

01:03:36 • 5min

The Origins of Fascism and Trotskyist Defectors

01:08:12 • 6min

Old Shaq Monites, Solidarity, and James Cannon's Influence

01:14:31 • 2min

Cannon's Impact on Trotskyism

01:16:11 • 4min

Trotskyist Opposition to World War II

01:20:13 • 16min

Shifts in Political Affiliations and Historical Omission of Left Oppositionists

01:35:57 • 2min

Formation and Evolution of American Trotskyist Parties

01:37:38 • 14min

The Complex World of Trotskyism

01:51:39 • 9min

Discussion on ISO, 96 Labour Party, and Nader's Campaigns

02:00:37 • 2min

The Decline of Trotskyism and Rise of Marxist Linearism

02:02:31 • 14min

Debating Permanent Revolution, Transitional Program, and Reform Approach

02:16:58 • 2min

Exploring Trotskyist Factions and Positions

02:18:30 • 3min

Chris and Jason form Regrettable Century join for this discussion. Ready for a journey into the labyrinth of American Trotskyism? Buckle up and join us as we take a deep dive into the complex history and dynamics of this ideology. From its inception in 1928 to its splintering evolution, we dissect the intricate facets of bureaucratic collectivism, state capitalism, and the role of the Socialist Workers' Party in the wider Marxist-Leninist movement. We also discuss the pivotal yet controversial impact of major figures such as Churchill and Stalin during World War II on this ideological path.

Next, we navigate through the turbulence of Trotskyism's various splits and ideologies, touching on the rise of entryism and its attempted application within the Socialist Party in the 1930s and the Green Party in the 2000s. We scrutinize the four key doctrinal pillars of Trotskyism - doctrines that have often been the butt of jokes. What is more, we delve into the influence of the International Socialist League, the Socialist Party of America, and of course, Leon Trotsky himself on the development of American Trotskyism.

Finally, we look at the decline of Trotskyism in the United States. How has corporate publishing and the lack of worker's parties contributed to this downturn? Is there truth to the theory that much of the fractures within Trotskyism are a result of the low stakes of Marxist movements in the US and a resultant overinflated sense of importance? We challenge these notions and more. So, sit back and join us as we explore the fascinating and convoluted world of Trotskyism.

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Musis by Bitterlake, Used with Permission, all rights to Bitterlake

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Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

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