Rescuing the middle ground.pdf (155.35 kB)
Download fileRescuing the middle ground: neo-liberalism and associational socialism
This paper replies to Peter Saunders' critique of my ‘New ideas of socialism’ and takes the debate further by clarifying my advocacy of ‘associational socialism’ and making a more general critique of neo-liberalism. The combination of decentralization and co-operative co-ordination envisaged in the idea of associationalism’ is defended and clarified. It is argued that repression is not necessarily inherent in socialist ends. Libertarians are seen to be poor liberals with a limited and unambitious concept of freedom which focuses on the dangers of state power but glosses over economic and social threats to liberty. It is argued that socialism should be about balancing liberal and socialist principles rather than opting for one side over the other.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Economy and SocietyISSN
0308-5147Publisher
Taylor & FrancisExternal DOI
Issue
1Volume
22Page range
100-113Pages
14.0Department affiliated with
- Sociology and Criminology Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes