A French philosopher and author who developed the concept of revolutionary syndicalism, advocating for workers to unite and overthrow capitalism through general strikes. His ideas influenced early 20th-century socialist and fascist movements.
Georges Sorel, a French social thinker, political theorist, and historian, left an indelible mark on the world of politics and philosophy. He is best known for his concept of the power of myth in collective agency, which inspired socialists, anarchists, Marxists, and fascists alike, and his defense of violence as a means to achieve social change.
Born in Cherbourg on November 2, 1847, Sorel was the son of a businessman. He moved to Paris in 1864 to attend the Collège Rollin, before entering the École Polytechnique a year later. After completing his education, he became chief engineer with the Department of Public Works in 1869.
Sorel's philosophical contributions were shaped by his reading of prominent thinkers such as Proudhon, Karl Marx, Giambattista Vico, Henri Bergson, and William James. He was particularly drawn to Bergson's lectures at the Collège de France, which influenced his own ideas on the role of myth in collective action.
Sorel's political views underwent significant transformations throughout his life. He began as a liberal-conservative, before adopting Marxist and social democratic ideologies. Eventually, he became a proponent of syndicalism, a radical form of trade unionism.
During the early 20th century, Sorel was briefly associated with Charles Maurras' Action Française, a right-wing nationalist movement. However, he later distanced himself from Maurras' anti-Semitic views and moved towards Bolshevist positions.
Sorel's influence can be seen across the political spectrum, from socialists to fascists. His ideas on the power of myth and the role of violence in social change have inspired thinkers such as Antonio Gramsci, Benito Mussolini, and Georges Lukács.
Historian Zeev Sternhell has argued that Sorel's revision of Marxism broke the link between revolution and the working class, paving the way for the rise of fascist movements.
"The myth is not a description of things, but an expression of will."
"The violence of the workers is the only force capable of realizing the Revolution."
Sorel's later life was marked by a period of silence during World War I. He eventually came out in favor of Lenin and Bolshevism, a move that alienated some of his former associates.
Georges Sorel passed away on August 29, 1922, leaving behind a complex and multifaceted legacy that continues to shape political thought and action to this day.
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