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with the class conscious workers of all other lands. The international social democracy is not a phantom to us, not merely a beautiful phrase. No; it is an end, without the attainment of which the emancipation of the laboring class cannot be accomplished. This matter of internationalism is one of sacred seriousness with us. We are well acquainted with the consequences of our declaration and the obligations that it lays on us, and if we have not expressly stated it in this platform, as was the case in the former one, it has been merely for this reason, that we believe it to be superfluous, yes, weakening, after our present existing declaration that we hold ourselves to be one with the social democrats of all other lands.
What we solemnly determine here is for each and all to make a reality in life and to convert into deeds and acts that which stands in this platform. In the international union of the proletariat the German social democracy will always perform its obligations, turned back by nothing that duty requires.
I would now direct your attention to a sentence in the sixth paragraph: "The struggle of the working classes against the capitalist exploitations must of necessity be a political struggle. The working classes can neither carry on their economic struggle nor develop their economic organization without political rights." Herewith we declare the political nature of our party and separate ourselves from those who advocate the so-called "propaganda of the deed," who in reality raise "inactivity" to a platform and with revolutionary phrases exercise the propaganda of "nothingness." We must act and work politically, apply all instruments in order to further our end.
There is much to do and the more strength we employ, the greater the sum of power we put into the work, the sooner will it be accomplished.
