In his 1969 article "An Essay on Liberation", Frankfurt School philosopher Herbert Marcuse deals with the themes of societal change, liberation, and the struggle against domination within capitalist and socialist systems. He emphasizes the need for collective ownership, control, and planning of the means of production as fundamental elements for an alternative society.
Marcuse argues that the weakening of superpowers is crucial to halt the financing and arming of suppression in underdeveloped countries. He draws inspiration from liberation movements such as the Cuban revolution and the Viet Cong, highlighting their resistance and solidarity as catalysts for change. Marcuse also recognizes the importance of addressing the inherent contradictions within capitalist societies to achieve true liberation.
"An Essay on Liberation" explores the potential disintegration of the corporate capitalist system due to economic crisis, the burden of the defense sector, and growing opposition to the Vietnam War. It discusses the challenges of maintaining profit margins and finding new outlets for productivity, which may lead to the proliferation of waste and the stimulation of consumerism.
Furthermore, Marcuse examines the role of the Soviet Union in sustaining capitalism through the concept of "peaceful coexistence" and the shared interest in opposing communism. He distinguishes Soviet socialism from new movements striving for a socialism based on solidarity and liberation from exploitation. Marcuse emphasizes the importance of developing new modes and goals of production that align with human needs and relationships, rather than replicating capitalist productivity.
The article also contemplates the potential disintegration of society and the spread of discontent, inefficiency, and resistance to work as a result of growing contradictions. It suggests that a general process of disintegration leading to change can be sparked by a crisis that activates resistance against political and mental repression.
In summary, Marcuse highlights the need for a concrete alternative to the current societal structure, emphasizing collective ownership, control, and planning, as well as the development of new modes and goals of production. He envisions a society where solidarity and cooperation replace domination, resulting in a qualitative difference and the expansion of freedom. Marcuse argues for the importance of negative thinking, spontaneity, and rejecting traditional forms of political struggle in the pursuit of liberation and the construction of a new society.