Socialism in 60

Socialism in 60 is an interactive weekly discussion group designed to introduce new people to the ideas of Democratic Socialism. The group also aims to inspire current socialists to think critically about how they might apply the theory of Democratic Socialism to present day social problems.

Group discussions should be centered around, but not entirely limited to, the weekly readings. The readings are divided between a Primary Reading – some classic piece of socialist theory – and supporting readings that deal with contemporary issues. Whenever possible, we should encourage the production of some concrete item – a leaflet, a poster or some expression of the theory put to work in the present.

Our first meeting will be held on Friday September 9 at 6:00 pm – email socialistpartynyc(at)gmail.com for more info. Here are the proposed readings for the first four weeks:

Week 1 – Capitalism, Communism and Socialism

- Selection from the Communist Manifesto

- It’s the Inequality, Stupid – Mother Jones

- To Slow Piracy Internet Providers Ready Penalties

- Toxic Pop: How Tar Sands Fuel Disposable Cans

Week 2 – How Class Matters

- Selection from the Condition of the English Working Class

- Brooklyn Community District 7 Study

- Manhattan Community District 7 Study

Week 3 – Thinking and Doing – Intro to Structure and Agency

- The Grapes of Wrath – Chapter 5

- Tomorrow Begins Today – Zapatistas

- Photo Essay Anti-Globalization Movement

Week 4 – Can the revolution really be new?

- Selection – The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte

- Re-create ‘68

- Testimony of Abbie Hoffman