About
- Trotskyism is a Marxist political ideology named after Leon Trotsky, a Russian revolutionary and Marxist theorist. It is a form of communism that emphasizes the need for an international "permanent revolution" and promotes the idea that socialism cannot sustain itself in one country alone. Trotskyism is distinct from other Marxist theories, particularly Stalinism, with which it has been in a continuous struggle since the late 1920s.
Leon Trotsky was a key figure in the Bolshevik seizure of power in Russia during the October Revolution of 1917. He later served as the People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs and the People's Commissar of Military and Naval Affairs. He was a central leader in the early days of the Soviet Union until he was expelled from the Communist Party and exiled in the late 1920s by Joseph Stalin, who adopted a policy of "Socialism in One Country."
Trotskyism's central theory is the concept of "permanent revolution," which argues that in countries delayed in their economic and political development, an initial bourgeois-democratic revolution led by the proletariat must inevitably lead to a socialist revolution. This is in contrast to the Stalinist concept of "socialism in one country," which posited that socialism could be built in a single country, even one as underdeveloped as Russia.
Trotskyists also criticize the bureaucracy that developed in the Soviet Union under Stalin, arguing that it was a degenerated workers' state; that is, a state in which the working class had lost political control. Trotskyists aim to create a dictatorship of the proletariat, based on democratic principles, to facilitate the transition to a socialist society.
Trotskyism has been influential in some communist or anti-Stalinist left-wing circles, particularly in the 1930s in the United States and in the 1960s and 1970s in Western Europe. It has been associated with various political movements and parties worldwide, including the Socialist Workers Party in the United States and the Revolutionary Communist Party in France. Despite its influence, Trotskyism has never been the leading ideological current within the international communist movement.
In conclusion, Trotskyism is a form of Marxism that emphasizes international revolution and criticizes the bureaucratic tendencies of Stalinism. It has had a significant impact on various left-wing movements throughout the 20th century, despite its marginal status within the broader communist movement.
Relevant stances
Voters that identify as Trotskyism are most likely to agree with these stances.
Opposing stances
Voters that identify as Trotskyism are most likely to oppose these stances.
Similar ideologies
These ideologies are most similar to Trotskyism.
Marxism
A classless society where wealth and resources are distributed equitably, leading to the eradication of exploitation and social inequality.
Anti-Capitalism
Creating a more equitable society where wealth and resources are distributed fairly among all individuals.
Revolutionary Socialism
The establishment of a classless, egalitarian society through the overthrow of oppressive systems and the redistribution of wealth and power.
Economic Egalitarianism
Striving for a society where wealth and resources are distributed fairly, reducing income inequality and promoting equal opportunities for all.
Alter-Globalization
Promoting a more equitable, democratic, and sustainable global system that prioritizes social and environmental well-being over corporate interests and profits.
Syndicalism
A society where workers collectively own and manage industries, leading to a more equitable distribution of wealth and power.
Opposing ideologies
These ideologies are least similar to Trotskyism.
Anarcho-Capitalism
Achieving a society where individual freedom is maximized through the elimination of government intervention and the promotion of voluntary exchanges within a free market system.
Far-right
Promoting traditional values, nationalism, and strict immigration policies to preserve cultural identity and protect national sovereignty.
Conservative
You believe what we have is worth protecting, and the risks of major change outweigh the potential benefits.
Objectivist
You believe rational pursuit of your own values and productivity is the moral foundation of a free and prosperous society.
Market Fundamentalism
Unrestricted free markets lead to the most efficient and socially optimal allocation of resources.
Right-Libertarianism
Maximizing individual freedom and minimizing government intervention to achieve a prosperous and self-reliant society.
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