Issue 48 of In Defence of Marxism magazine – the quarterly theoretical journal of the Revolutionary Communist International – is out now! Alan Woods’ editorial, which we republish, takes up the central question of whether we can truly know and understand the world around us, which is a theme throughout this issue.

With the world's most powerful imperialist power, the United States, entering into relative decline, rival powers are struggling for influence. Turmoil and disorder prevail on the world stage, preparing the ground for revolutionary explosions.

The assassination of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO has tapped into a raw class anger in the USA, Britain, and beyond. But we need more than one modern-day Robin Hood. We need an army of workers and youth, mobilised in the fight for communist revolution.

Donald Trump is once again set to lead the most powerful imperialist power in history. However, Trump’s expansionist ambitions offer no solution to the crisis of American capitalism, nor the danger of class struggle and revolution.

Several wildfires are raging uncontrollably in and around the US city of Los Angeles. From the climate crisis, to the underfunding of fire departments, to water privatisation – the blame for this catastrophe lies squarely with the capitalist class.

Trump’s impending inauguration has him already wreaking havoc. Starmer is hated and oversees a government of crisis, leaving opportunities for ‘anti-establishment’ Reform to gain ground. We are entering a new disturbed era of world politics – buckle up!