J. Moufawad-Paul, a philosopher and author known for his deep dives into Maoism and communism, joins the discussion. They explore why communism is essential amid capitalism's contradictions and how Maoism signifies both continuity and rupture in revolutionary theory. The conversation also critiques reformist tendencies, advocating for organized revolutionary efforts, while reflecting on the role of Maoism in contemporary movements and its complexities in a post-colonial context. Insights on the interplay of Marxism with Enlightenment ideas and theories like postmodernism round out this thought-provoking dialogue.
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Maoism's Origin as 3rd Stage Theory
Maoism emerged as a distinct theoretical stage of revolutionary communism in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
This development was inspired largely by the Communist Party of Peru (Shining Path) theorizing Maoism as a 'third stage' following Marxism-Leninism.
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Distinguishing Maoism Name vs Concept
Differentiating the name 'Maoism' from its concept prevents confusing earlier anti-revisionist uses with the later developed comprehensive theory.
Maoism as a theoretical tendency is greater than Mao himself, allowing critique and development beyond the individual's historical work.
insights INSIGHT
Gramsci's Impact on Maoist Strategy
Gramsci's concept of hegemony is essential for understanding revolutionary strategy in Maoism.
Maoism incorporates ideas like protracted people's war to build counter-hegemony and expand revolutionary influence among the masses.
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Frantz Fanon's "The Wretched of the Earth" is a seminal work of postcolonial theory that explores the psychological and social effects of colonialism on colonized peoples. Fanon argues that colonialism creates a system of oppression that dehumanizes and alienates the colonized, leading to violence and resistance. He analyzes the role of violence in the struggle for liberation, emphasizing its necessity in breaking the cycle of oppression. The book also examines the process of decolonization, highlighting the need for a complete transformation of society and the creation of new forms of social and political organization. Fanon's work remains highly influential in discussions of colonialism, decolonization, and the ongoing struggle for racial and social justice.
Representations of the Intellectual
Representations of the Intellectual
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Edward Said
Edward Said's "Representations of the Intellectual" is a seminal work exploring the role of intellectuals in society. Said distinguishes between two types of intellectuals: the organic intellectual, deeply engaged with the struggles of their communities, and the establishment intellectual, often aligned with power structures. He analyzes the complexities of intellectual engagement, highlighting the ethical and political responsibilities of intellectuals in shaping public discourse and challenging dominant narratives. The book examines the historical and cultural contexts that shape intellectual production and the ways in which intellectuals can contribute to social change. Said's work remains highly influential in postcolonial studies and critical theory.
ORIGINALLY RELEASED Mar 18, 2018
In this engaging episode, Breht sits down with philosopher and author J. Moufawad-Paul, the mind behind the influential books "The Communist Necessity" and "Continuity and Rupture" among others. Together, they delve deep into JMP's profound exploration of communism and Maoism, unpacking key concepts like revolutionary necessity, historical continuity, and theoretical rupture.
This wide-ranging discussion tackles pivotal questions of Marxist theory: Why is communism not merely an ideological preference, but a necessity born from the contradictions of capitalism? How does Maoism represent both a continuity with Marxist-Leninist traditions and a significant rupture, signaling a critical evolution in revolutionary theory and practice? And importantly, what can contemporary revolutionaries and activists learn from this dialectical understanding of revolutionary history?
Tune in to deepen your grasp of Marxism, enrich your theoretical toolkit, and learn about the nuances of marxism-leninism-maoism.
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