Three dilemmas and one path

a reflection on the origins of the left's crisis and its overcoming

Abstract

The article explores the theme of the crisis of the left, emphasizing three currents that make up this field of the political spectrum, identified as Marxist left, Identity left, and Poverty-focused left. Each of these currents faces a major dilemma that challenges its perspective of radically transforming society towards the emancipation of human beings, namely nostalgia, sectarianism, and conformism. The failure to overcome these dilemmas results in a profound political disorientation that unfolds in a disconnection from reality, loss of a sense of community, and a distancing from purpose. This prolonged situation incapacitates the left from formulating a transformative project for the country and, consequently, from fulfilling its self-proclaimed mission. To overcome these problems, it is necessary to confront these dilemmas forcefully, guided by the primacy of reality, fostering a sense of community, and glorifying purpose. The success of this endeavor points to the reconstruction of a bold program of political reforms, which is divided into three dimensions: the desirable attitudes for advocates of this project, the values that guide it, and the profile that existing institutions should assume. The effort undertaken here serves as a call for reflection and the unity of left-wing forces committed to a more egalitarian world, providing all individuals with opportunities to develop as workers and fulfill themselves as individuals.