In the ABCs of Capitalism, sociologist Vivek Chibber walks us through the basic concepts and questions of how our capitalist economic system works and reproduces itself over time. In pamphlet C, Dr. Chibber explains the obstacles that activists and organizers face when attempting to build broad social movements, as well as why socialists still see workers as capitalism's "gravediggers". We'll be thinking through questions like:
- How is power distributed within capitalism?
- Why do workers, and not elites, have a unique capacity for social change?
- What is solidarity? Where does it come from and why is it important?
- Why is it important that institutions, like unions or businesses, be democratized? How could they be?

These discussions will be reading groups led by a facilitator and the pamphlets are about 30 pages each. They are meant to be at an introductory level but are open to all. And, whether you’re new to Left or still retain vivid memories of arguing with Michael Harrington, anyone who has mastered a subject will tell you that it’s always helpful to return to the basics. The pamphlets are available for free from Jacobin: (https://jacobinmag.com/2020/05/get-a-free-ebook-version-of-the-abcs-of-capitalism)

Please email us with any questions or concerns at lomanpolied@gmail.com.