Goals of MTSC:
For those taking part in the circle to undergo a process in which they’ll understand Marxism-Leninism-Maoism (MLM) sufficiently to effectively utilize it in both mass and higher organizations. This would include being able to initiate Marxist analysis, criticism and self-criticism, and subjecting oneself to collective discipline.
To convince participants to immerse themselves in mass work, and for those already in mass work to supplement it with what they have learned in the circle.
Study Structure
The curriculum consists of four major parts: Dialectical Materialism, Scientific Socialism, Political Economy, The Russian and Chinese Revolutions; and two minor ones: Introduction and Miscellaneous. These are divided into modules or sections (I), tracks, and subsections (a) respectively. After the conclusion of the Introduction and Dialectical Materialism: section I, pod-mates may opt to continue to any subject in section order. In addition, pods may be reorganized after the completion of a section to allow flexibility with varying schedules throughout the year.
The curriculum aims to cover material necessary to satisfy the goals of the study circle. Studies progress around the MLM Basic Course with classical/fundamental works featured with selected chapters of the course. How many individual studies it may take to complete each text varies according to the pace set by the students. In between studies, there may be supplementary events arranged as per agreement by the circle (e.g. a movie screening, additional text, workshop, etc.). Further, tracks may be adjusted to account for particular needs or specific interests of students. Each study pod will have at least 3 participants to start.
At the end of every section, a review should take place to show both to the facilitators and the students themselves what they have learned so far and to iron out remaining misconceptions or concepts that were missed. If there’s a significant lack of understanding, then facilitators will provide supplementary lessons until the group has arrived at a more complete understanding.
Non-virtual pods should hold studies in person when possible, taking basic covid precautions such as masking and using air-filters when indoors.
Mount Tai Study Circle 