Noted recall: The goal is to describe, in just a few words, what the article is about. Additionally, if I think the article is particularly note-worthy (good or bad), I will comment on that. Compare this to a small sticky note, something to jog your memory about the contents of an article. Of course, if I miss the point of an article, or fail to find anything remarkable, that is entirely the fault of the reviewer.
Available at: https://monthlyreview.org/2019/01/01/mr-070-08-2019-01_0/
South Africa Suffers Capitalist Crisis Déjà Vu - Patrick Bond
(read 2019/01/15)
Some recent history of South Africa. Specific focus on Ramaphosa. Main theme was class issues, inequality due to capitalism; labor unions (COSATU, SAFTU). Government credit issues, loans from outside countries such as China. Spent some time talking about corruption, and Gupta case. Some closing remarks about recent activism.
Black Feminism and the Combahee River Collective - Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor
(read 2019/01/16)
A look at Black women identity group. Background on the Combahee River Collective statement (first use of "identity politics"). Discussion of "intersectionality." The key point of the statement, oppression is rooted in capitalism; freeing the most oppressed must then naturally free everyone. Worth reading.
A Black Feminist Statement - The Combahee River Collective
(read 2019/01/16)
Read this. (This article is the original statement from 1977 reprinted.) Origins of Black feminism and recent history. Political beliefs; equality (a socialist society), anti-racism, anti-sexism. Problems in organizing, challenges from other identity groups including Black men; struggling against both racism and sexism simultaneously is harder than just one. Sprinkled throughout are remarks on socialist goals; oppression by capitalism. The closing paragraph is quite nice.
Cuba, Che Guevara, and the Problem of "Socialism in One Country" - Ron Augustin
(read 2019/01/17)
Essay on some commentary by Che Guevara, that an isolated country cannot become socialist in a capitalist world. Cuba is the specific example talked about, some history, and current analysis.
Capitalism and Mental Health - David Matthews
(read 2019/01/18)
Discusses mental health, focus on depression. Says structure of society is important; that capitalism is an influential factor in mental health. Several points, but two I found most relevant were 1) feeling unsatisfied with work, not feeling sense of accomplishment, not a creative experience 2) consumerism culture. There were several other topics discussed, and though the author makes several assertions without evidence, this is worth reading.