- 1. Reform or Revolution? is a seminal work by the Marxist theorist and revolutionary Rosa Luxemburg, in which she passionately argues against the reformist approach to social change advocated by some factions within the socialist movement in her time. Written in 1900, this text serves as a critical examination of the debate surrounding the best strategies for achieving socialism. Luxemburg posits that mere reforms, while beneficial in the short term, ultimately cannot resolve the fundamental contradictions of capitalism; they may provide temporary relief to the working class but do not challenge the capitalist system itself. In contrast, she advocates for revolutionary action as the necessary path toward genuine transformation, emphasizing the importance of mass movements and autonomous class struggle. Luxemburg's arguments underscore her belief in democracy, spontaneity, and the proactive participation of the proletariat in their liberation, which she sees as essential to achieving a true socialist society. Her analysis combines historical materialism with a fervent appeal to the revolutionary spirit, making this work a pivotal contribution to Marxist theory and the broader discussion of the nature of social change.
Who was Luxemburg primarily debating in 'Reform or Revolution?'
A) Vladimir Lenin
B) Friedrich Engels
C) Eduard Bernstein
D) Karl Marx
- 2. What did Bernstein argue about capitalist development?
A) Capitalism was heading toward immediate collapse
B) Capitalism was becoming more stable and crises were diminishing
C) Capitalism had already achieved socialism
D) Capitalism required violent overthrow immediately
- 3. What did Luxemburg identify as the fundamental contradiction of capitalism?
A) Between democracy and monarchy
B) Between urban and rural workers
C) Between industrial and agricultural sectors
D) Between socialized production and private appropriation
- 4. According to Luxemburg, what is necessary for the transition to socialism?
A) Moral persuasion of capitalists
B) Gradual legislative reforms
C) Technological advancement alone
D) Seizure of political power by the working class
- 5. How did Luxemburg characterize Bernstein's revisionism?
A) An abandonment of scientific socialism
B) A creative development of Marxist theory
C) A return to true Marxist principles
D) A synthesis of Marxism and liberalism
- 6. How did Luxemburg view the relationship between economic and political struggle?
A) They are inseparable aspects of class struggle
B) They should be pursued separately
C) Economic struggle is primary, political is secondary
D) Political struggle should replace economic struggle
- 7. According to Luxemburg, what is the significance of mass strikes?
A) They should be avoided as too disruptive
B) They are outdated and ineffective tactics
C) They are schools of revolutionary class struggle
D) They can only achieve economic demands
- 8. What was Luxemburg's view on the dictatorship of the proletariat?
A) Unnecessary in democratic societies
B) A temporary measure before restoring capitalism
C) Identical to bourgeois democracy
D) Necessary for the transition to socialism
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