Shadia Balram | Contributor
Featured image: Articles in this volume of the Socialist Register explain the evolution of social change and its impact on current social pressures. | Courtesy of Socialist Register
A pair of York political science professors, Greg Albo and Leo Panitch, have published the 53rd volume of the annual Socialist Register, an international journal titled “Rethinking Revolution.”
The latest issue includes works from activists and thinkers discussing the effects of the Russian Revolution after 1917, exploring both negative and positive aspects of political, intellectual and cultural life.
Albo argues that academia, and students in particular, must debate and discuss social pressures such as climate change, income inequalities, permanent war and authoritarian politics. According to Albo, new democratic politics are needed to relieve the impact of these social pressures.
“It is crucial we begin to debate and organize about these new ways forward. That is why we titled this new volume, ‘Rethinking Revolution’,” says Albo.
The journal discusses inspired “leftists and oppressed peoples” and how they have become the spearhead for 20th century politics. This volume explores how revolution and reform have become impossible, as social change as it was in the 20th century doesn’t apply today.
“Leadership passes from one generation to another much quicker than we realize,” adds Albo, who encourages students with so-called “potential moral integrity” to stir up change, rather than spectate.
Articles in this volume explain the evolution of social change and its impact on current social pressures.
When asked about what inspired their work, Albo outlines the forms and possibilities for social transformation having to take new directions. He says that the Russian Revolution of 1917 brought reform, but today, these processes are over.
Panitch, co-editor of the Socialist Register since 1985, describes his interest in Marxism at age 19, stating that he’s been inspired ever since to write and research capitalism and its affects on society.
Panitch hopes the difficult issues presented in the register will offer insight as to the way capitalism is understood. He is optimistic that students will engage with the material, specifically on how to combat the alleged adversities of capitalism and the risks involved to reform it.
