Our most basic document and the document that is the foundation of the Socialist Party USA is the Statement of Principles. It is what brings socialists of divergent views and tendencies into the Party. It is our common point of agreement. The first thing one will see on our website is the introductory paragraph of our Statement of Principles. On the application that every prospective Member must fill out it states: “I, the undersigned, desiring to bring about, by democratic means, a new society based upon democratic socialism, hereby apply for membership in the SOCIALIST PARTY USA, and subscribe to its principles.” So what does it mean to subscribe to the Principles?

The definition we are looking for, is to agree or assent to. When one becomes a Member of the Party one agrees to what is stated in the Statement of Principles. When one assents to something they are agreeing with something freely and with understanding. In this case all Members agree with the Statement of Principles both freely and with an understanding. Of course just because one agrees with something does not mean they “believe” every part of it and that one can not seek to change it (but it must be understood that until any changes are made we agree to those principles). We are willing to agree with the Principles as a whole because we feel that through the SPUSA we can best promote socialism.

The first paragraph states: “The Socialist Party USA strives to establish a radical democracy that places people’s lives under their own control – a non-racist, classless, feminist socialist society in which people cooperate at work, at home and in the community.” The statement goes on to define what we mean by socialism and calls for “democratic revolution.” It is obvious by reading this first part that we are seeking an overthrow of the capitalist system and nothing less. We are not reformers! All the actions we take as a party must be taken with the idea that our taking of an action leads to that democratic revolution.

Further on, within the Statement, under the Internal Democracy section, a line reads: “Solidarity within the party comes from the ability of those with divergent views on some issues to engage in collective struggle towards social revolution.” Once again the word revolution is used in defining our Principles. It also specifically points out that, though, we have very differing views on certain issues we come together as one to bring about the social revolution. Again, and very importantly, the term revolution is used.

The Statement of Principles ends with a call for and a definition of “Democratic revolution from below.” It states that only the people can overthrow their oppressors. From below people’s organizations will exercise power in the socialist society. The Principles specifically state: “People’s organizations cannot be created by legislation…” We work with and within organizations to guide these organizations toward democratic revolution. For much the same reason we participate in electoral politics. In all cases we strive toward democratic revolution.