Deviationism

Deviationism is a term used in political discourse, particularly within Marxist and Communist movements, to describe a departure from the official party line or ideology. It is often used pejoratively to criticize those who are seen as straying from the accepted principles or policies of the party.

Historical Context

Deviationism has been a significant concept in the history of Communism, especially during the Soviet Union era. The term was frequently employed by Joseph Stalin and other Soviet leaders to denounce those who were perceived as ideological deviants. This included both left deviationism, which referred to those advocating for more radical policies than the party leadership, and right deviationism, which referred to those advocating for more moderate or reformist policies.

Types of Deviationism

Left Deviationism

Left deviationism is characterized by a push for more extreme measures than those endorsed by the party leadership. This could include calls for rapid industrialization, aggressive collectivization, or revolutionary actions that the party deems premature or counterproductive. Notable figures accused of left deviationism include Leon Trotsky and his followers, who were critical of Stalin's policies and advocated for a more internationalist approach to revolution.

Right Deviationism

Right deviationism, on the other hand, involves a tendency towards more conservative or reformist policies. This could include advocating for slower economic reforms, greater market mechanisms, or more conciliatory approaches to political opposition. Prominent figures accused of right deviationism include Nikolai Bukharin, who supported the New Economic Policy (NEP) and was later purged during Stalin's consolidation of power.

Consequences of Deviationism

Accusations of deviationism often led to severe consequences for those targeted. During the Great Purge in the late 1930s, many individuals accused of deviationism were expelled from the party, imprisoned, or executed. The label of deviationism was a powerful tool for maintaining party discipline and eliminating dissent within the ranks.

Related Concepts

• Orthodoxy (politics)
• Factionalism
• Purges in the Soviet Union
• Marxism-Leninism
• Trotskyism
• Bukharinism

See Also

• Communist Party of the Soviet Union
• Stalinism
• Political repression in the Soviet Union
• New Economic Policy
• Great Purge