In 'Socialism's problems' (The Sunday Gleaner, May 31), Ian Boyne seems to have taken offence at inroads against 'theism' on the the online forum 'Caribbean Dialogues' and decided to strike back at what he thinks is Marxism's own 'theism'.

Boyne's arguments, which date back to the early 20th century, are neither new nor original, and remain at the level of ideology. In the meantime:

1. The United Nations' Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) in its updated 'World Economic Situation and Prospects' reported that "The world economy is deeply mired in the most severe financial and economic crisis since World War II. With its increasing impact both in scope and depth worldwide, the crisis poses a significant threat to the world economic and social development. The crisis, if it prolongs much further, likely will also bear profound consequences for global security and stability."

2. New projections, published in the May issue of the American Meteorological Society's Journal of Climate, indicate a median probability of surface warming of 5.2 degrees Celsius by 2100, with a 90 per cent probability range of 3.5 to 7.4 degrees. This means that projected global warming is greater than originally forecast.

practical problems

Two practical problems face humanity at this time: a worsening global economy and climate. We should expend our intellectual energies on addressing these challenges. Suffice it to say that the current global economic framework has led us to the path which we now travel.

How do we get from here to where we want to go? Marx definitely provided insights. Society is in labour, the economic and technological developments of capitalism are pregnant with the basis for a new social order. Stillbirth might result if the mid-wife (the political organisation of the working class) cannot deliver its birth. If the delivery is successful, humanity will enjoy a more democratic and decentralised society.

What are these economic and technological developments? The tendency towards increasing integration of the world economies (globalisation), a global currency, global governance structures, information and communication technologies, and labour replacing technologies.

incumbent interests

There is no inevitability to the process. The technologies that hold potential to further progressive interests could equally be used for incumbent interests based on the balance of class forces.

Hence, the need for progressive politics to guide technological development for the benefit of the majority.

The result would not be a society based on central planning.

Economic and technological development, increase the integration of Jamaica into the world economy, attract foreign direct investments, support free trade agreements and the development of mega-corporations. In a few words, "increase the antagonisms" in the global economic and social structures while building an international political organisation. That is the programme, Mr Boyne.

I am, etc.,

MARK THOMPSON

reachingout69@hotmail.com

Kingston 20