Yechury S. On Combating Subjectivism

An article. — The Marxist, XXXI 3. — July–September 2015.The history of all successful socialist revolutions of the 20th century shows that the Communist Parties that led these revolutions to triumph were constantly engaged in what is called “combating subjectivism.” This is an ongoing struggle within the Communist Parties and in the realm of the individual consciousness of every communist, which determines, amongst others, the strength of its political-organisational capabilities.An incorrect estimation of the concrete conditions, naturally, will lead to an erroneous political line and consequent tactical line. Even when the political tactical line is correctly evolved on a scientific basis, its translation into actuality will depend on the strength of the organisation. As Stalin had once famously said that the political line may be 100 per cent correct but that has no meaning without an organisation capable of carrying this correct political line to the people. Party organisation, thus, plays a vital role in the Party’s activities for developing people’s consciousness and preparing them for a revolutionary upsurge. Amongst the various aspects of Party organisation, one important element is the constant struggle to combat the tendency of subjectivism, both in the appraisal of concrete conditions and in the conduct of concrete analysis of these conditions. And, on this basis, to sharpen the class struggles by larger and larger mobilization of the people.To summarise, combating subjectivism is essential for a correct understanding of the concrete situation; for the evolution of the correct political-tactical line for advancing the class struggles; and for correct organizational methods that need to be applied to achieve the objectives. At all levels, subjectivism can prevent the advance of the revolutionary movement.