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3. The SP and Communism -The
Strategy of Gradualism
Is
there a clear difference between the strategy of the SP and that of communism
for reaching the ultimate goal of total equality? Yes: a) The SP fears that
immediate implementation of a regime of total equality would stir up
undesirable reactions; b) For this reason, which is purely a question of
circumstances, opportunism and strategy, the SP holds that communist principles
must be applied gradually, and in stages so gauged as to avoid excessive
shocks. 13
A
certain initial moderation of the French socialists in the transition to total
equality is not the result of kindness, compassion or indulgence for a defeated
adversary, but rather the consequence of a strictly utilitarian calculation
made long before their victory.
However,
it should be emphasized that in its radical egalitarianism the French SP draws
on the socio-economic experience - which we know to be harsh and disappointing
- of all the countries in which communism is or has been put into practice.
Thus, to a great extent the SP avoids the nationalization so characteristic of
old-fashioned communism and aims to establish, in all or nearly all enterprises
that have hitherto been private, another form of democratic and radical
egalitarianism: self-management. 14
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