I understand there were Social Democrats in late 19th century Germany, too. I do not mean to push the comparison, other than in the sense that not all welfare state programs are manna from heaven. They are brought in to serve contigent ruling class interests (in response to popular pressure, of course) but it is rather feeble to defend the welfare state in retrospect as a great workers' victory once the ruling class has decided it doesn't need them anymore. The bourgies are telling us, by their deeds not their words, that the constellation of class forces has changed. Our bleak experience in opposing the social program cuts confirms what the bourgies are telling us. So what's the game plan? regards, Tom Walker
