Thursday, April 06, 2006

Criticise capitalism don't defend Soviet socialism

Guardian Unlimited | Comment is free | To criticise capitalism don't try to defend the dregs of Soviet socialism - Timothy Garton Ash: "In this debate about colour revolutions in the east, the left must not confuse the right answers with rightwing ones

It's fair and vital for people on the left to criticise western double standards, the human consequences of neoliberal shock therapy, social inequality and current US foreign policy, but that should not lead anyone into weaselly apologetics for the authoritarian dregs of Soviet socialism. Surely the first concern of anyone on the democratic left today should be for those peaceful protesters now banged up in Lukashenko's jails. Wanting the people to have the chance to choose their own government is not a rightwing thing. It's simply the right thing."

http://www.timothygartonash.com/

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