Key Moments
Tariq Ali | Full Address and Q&A | Oxford Union
Oxford UnionKey Moments
Tariq Ali argues that the current wave of terrorism is not inherent to Islam but a consequence of Western foreign policy, drawing parallels to 19th-century Russian revolutionary terrorism and critiquing the liberal use of violent rhetoric.
Key Insights
The Russian Revolution, unlike earlier European revolutions, had the most global impact, accelerating decolonization and inspiring rebellions worldwide.
Lenin's theory countered the traditional socialist view by proposing that revolution could occur in the 'weakest link' of capitalism, not just the most advanced countries.
Terrorism, as a political current, has historical roots in European traditions, not solely in Islam, with 19th-century Russian radicals using violence against the autocracy.
The current rhetoric surrounding terrorism echoes the language used in the 1930s against Jews, with calls for a 'final solution' appearing in public discourse.
Neoliberalism, characterized by privatization and cuts to public spending, has led to a decay of democracy and a sense of 'no alternative' among the populace.
The rise of China, with its shift of the global capitalist market eastward and its success in lifting millions out of poverty, represents a significant 21st-century development, despite growing inequality.
Lenin and the weakest link of capitalism
Tariq Ali begins by discussing his book on Lenin, framing it within the context of major European revolutions. He emphasizes the Russian Revolution of 1917 as the last of these transformative events, noting its profound global impact, particularly in accelerating decolonization and influencing events in places like China and South America. Ali explains Lenin's crucial contribution: the theory that revolution would break out not necessarily in the most economically advanced capitalist nations, but at the 'weakest link' in the chain. In Lenin's era, this weakest link was Tsarist Russia, an autocracy heavily burdened by World War I. This war radicalized the peasantry, who, when returning to cities, easily united with the urban working class. Ali refutes the notion that the Bolsheviks came to power with a tiny minority, citing their millions of votes in pre-October elections. He argues that the revolution was a movement of deep ferment within the working class, propelled by Lenin's leadership. This understanding of revolution as a response to specific, opportune circumstances, rather than waiting for perfect conditions, is presented as a key takeaway from Lenin's thought and a critical aspect of his book.
The historical roots of terrorism
Ali critically examines the contemporary discourse on terrorism, arguing it is wrongly conflated with a single religion, Islam. He posits that terrorism has historical roots and that the current wave is influenced by the prolonged military presence of Western powers in Muslim-majority countries, citing the war in Afghanistan as an example. He draws a parallel to 19th-century Russia, where radicals, often from elite backgrounds, resorted to terrorism against the Tsarist autocracy when other avenues for change were blocked. Lenin, Ali notes, was critical of this strategy, believing that true emancipation had to be the work of the oppressed themselves. He points out that these historical terrorists targeted state officials and did not harm innocents, and their efforts ultimately failed to bring about mass uprising after 40 years. Ali stresses that this history of terrorism is part of the European tradition, and the current association with Islam is an oversimplification, ignoring broader political and historical causes. He laments the dehumanization of victims of modern warfare, noting how drone strikes and prolonged conflicts in countries like Syria and Libya are often reduced to fleeting news items, fostering a sense of passive acceptance.
Echoes of fascism and the decay of democracy
Ali expresses strong disapproval of the simplistic condemnation of entire religions, highlighting the rich cultural contributions of Christianity and Islam throughout history. He criticizes the rhetoric used against Muslims, drawing a disturbing parallel to the language employed against Jews in the 1920s and 1930s, including the phrase 'final solution.' He argues that this islamophobic discourse, often appearing after tragic events like the Manchester bombing, demonstrates a failure in historical education and a dangerous recurrence of fascist tendencies. Ali links this to the broader decay of democracy under neoliberalism. He describes the 'extreme center' as a political force, whether center-left or center-right, that largely follows American foreign policy, cuts public spending, and privatizes essential services, leading to their degradation. This shift, masked by the language of 'reform,' is presented as a regression. Ali argues that the collapse of the Soviet Union removed a counterweight, fostering a 'there is no alternative' mentality and a brutal, competitive capitalism that prioritizes profit over public well-being, as evidenced by the 2008 financial crisis response where trillions were spent to save banks while public services suffered.
The rise of populism and political engagement
The talk then shifts to the political landscape in the United States and Europe. Ali discusses the 'political insurrection' of Bernie Sanders' campaign as a sign of widespread anger against the neoliberal system, noting how the word 'socialism' was used, albeit for social democratic reforms. He contrasts this with the election of Donald Trump, suggesting that a candidate like Sanders might have offered a better alternative to the perceived corruption of Hillary Clinton. Ali critiques Trump's presidency, highlighting his policies that favor the rich and the media's normalization of his actions, such as bombing Syria. He touches upon the historical tendencies of US presidents, referencing figures like Nixon and Reagan to illustrate a pattern of problematic leadership. In Europe, Angela Merkel's call for greater European self-reliance is noted as a reaction to perceived American unreliability. Ali asserts that American capitalism remains potent, not least due to technological advances like the internet, but the significant shift of the global capitalist market to the East, particularly China, is a defining event of the 21st century. He acknowledges China's success in poverty reduction but also notes rising inequality and its assertive global economic role.
The changing left and the hope for change
Ali discusses the challenges and possibilities for the left, referencing Jean-Luc Mélenchon's strong performance in France as an example of a revitalized left movement that effectively uses modern communication tools. He contrasts this with older, more rigid forms of left-wing activism, suggesting a need for creative renewal in both ideas and methods. Ali critiques the electoral systems in countries like the US and UK, which often disadvantage third parties, forcing people to vote for established parties. He highlights Jeremy Corbyn's leadership of the Labour Party as a significant development, driven by a surge in new members attracted by promises of free higher education and the renationalization of railways. Ali views these proposals as genuine reforms, even if not a revolution, representing a potential step forward. He criticizes the media's persistent bias against Corbyn, noting that even figures traditionally part of the establishment are beginning to acknowledge it. For Ali, the current political situation demands critical thinking and an active embrace of hope over despair, essential for seizing opportunities for a better world. He concludes by stressing that while history is replete with defeats, new possibilities emerge, and critical engagement is key to taking advantage of them, a capability he attributes to figures like Lenin.
Student movements and historical context
Responding to a question about the student movements of 1968, Ali refutes the idea that students are inherently radical. He points to the 1930s, when many German university students supported fascism, as evidence that student activism is context-dependent. The '68 movements, he explains, were fueled by a confluence of factors: a massive expansion of universities leading to poor conditions, the Vietnam War, and a societal shift in attitudes towards sexuality and women's rights. These movements were framed within broader national liberation struggles. Ali contrasts this with contemporary identity politics, which he views as more apolitical. He notes the repercussions of '68, including the subsequent conservative backlash under Thatcher and Reagan, which affected student outlooks as they are a 'transitional layer' in society.
Tibet and minority rights
Addressing a question about Tibet, Ali states his views align with his perspectives on Kashmir, advocating for maximum autonomy or independence for national minorities. He acknowledges that both India and China have poor human rights records regarding their minorities. He expresses concern about China's strategy of encouraging Han Chinese migration into Tibet, predicting it will lead to the establishment of schools and hospitals primarily for the dominant nationality. Ali's position, shared by publications like the New Left Review, is that granting autonomy would be beneficial, though he sees little immediate prospect of this happening.
Mentioned in This Episode
●Organizations
●Concepts
●People Referenced
Common Questions
Tariq Ali wrote about Lenin partly due to the centenary of the Russian Revolution. He felt it was important to discuss Lenin's theories on anti-capitalist revolution and his understanding of how revolutions occur at the 'weakest link' in the capitalist chain.
Topics
Mentioned in this video
Mentioned in relation to the bombing of Libya, contributing to the country's division and the return of embittered individuals.
Mentioned as the publication where the Abed sister gave an interview detailing the events in Libya.
Referenced for its use of the phrase 'final solution,' which the speaker links to the language used in modern Islamophobic attacks.
Mentioned as a political party that has broken the traditional tribalism in elections, particularly in Scotland.
The political party that came to power in Russia under Lenin's leadership, receiving significant votes in constituent assembly elections.
Cited for publishing an essay linking Manchester to Libyan exiles and the role of the British state in Libya, influencing campaign issues.
Discussed in the context of its founding in 1945 and a missed opportunity to create a state pharmaceutical industry for affordable medicines.
Mentioned as winning many seats in the Netherlands' elections, advocating towards young and highly educated people, but taking seats from the Labour Party.
Mentioned as a potential candidate who might have fared better against Trump than Hillary Clinton.
Described as an old friend and the unexpectedly elected leader of the Labour Party, whose campaign promises like free higher education resonated with people.
Mentioned as an example of someone using inflammatory language, specifically invoking the term 'final solution' in relation to Muslims.
Mentioned alongside Thatcher in relation to the rise of neoliberalism and the collapse of the Soviet Union, and as a US president with a less than enlightened record.
Described as a 'tried and tested corrupt politician' whom many people did not want to support in the US election.
Served as education secretary under Harold Wilson and considered removing charitable status from private schools.
A conservative historian who, along with Pipes, argued that Lenin and Stalin were fundamentally different, suggesting the Soviet Union's history would have differed had Lenin lived longer.
Mentioned in relation to a campaign statement about Manchester and the Libyan exile community, and her government's actions.
His campaign in France is highlighted as a significant success for the left, gaining a large percentage of the vote and utilizing innovative communication methods.
Noted for expressing concern about media bias against Jeremy Corbyn, a sentiment that surprised the speaker as Dimbleby was perceived as part of the problem.
Mentioned in relation to the Iraq War and warnings from British intelligence about potential repercussions, and his leadership period when the speaker stopped voting Labour.
Quoted as stating that Europe can no longer rely on the US and must build its own strength, a statement noted by the Financial Times.
A German philosopher who advised against despair during crises, promoting hope as an emotion that leads to activity.
Cited for his writings on capitalism's effect of reducing victims to commodities and destroying humanity in both the workforce and individual capitalists.
Mentioned in relation to the 1964 Labour government and the consideration of removing charitable status from private schools.
Mentioned in the context of the British state using Islamist currents to attempt to topple him in Libya.
His campaign is described as an 'amazing political insurrection' in the US, showing significant public support for socialist ideas.
A German sociologist cited for warning about the effects of neoliberalism on democracy and its functioning.
Referred to as a 'fascist proto-fascist' candidate in the French election, against whom the establishment consolidated support for Macron.
Its revolution in 1949 is mentioned as a transformation linked to the Russian Revolution, and its emergence as a global capitalist market center is discussed.
Mentioned as occupying Muslim lands, contributing to terrorism, and its presidents (Trump, Obama, Reagan) and policies are discussed in relation to war, capitalism, and domestic issues.
Mentioned as a country that produces cheap medicines through a state pharmaceutical industry, and its treatment of minorities is compared to China's.
Mentioned as a country that, despite differing ideologies, has a state pharmaceutical industry producing cheap medicines.
Mentioned as a country that, to a certain extent, produces cheap medicines through a state pharmaceutical industry.
Mentioned as a region where India has a terrible record regarding its minorities, similar to China's treatment of Tibet.
The speaker expresses views similar to those on Kashmir regarding China and India's treatment of minorities, advocating for autonomy or independence.
Discussed as a political current with historical roots, often linked to religion but with underlying causes in Western foreign policy and occupation of Muslim lands.
The religion often wrongly linked to current waves of terrorism, with the speaker arguing against blaming entire religions and highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Islamic civilization.
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