Letter: Capitalism cannot be curbed

NEAL ASCHERSON should clarify his reference to Rosa Luxemburg's 'socialism or barbarism' in the context of his enthusiasm for Tony Blair ('How Blair and the new left could protect capitalism from itself', 26 June).

Luxemburg argued that capitalism would increasingly take fascistic forms. The only alternative to mounting barbarity was socialism, represented by the overthrow of the capitalist system in favour of collectivism.

Needless to say, the latter course bears no relation to Blair's social democracy. The notion that we can be saved by moderating capitalism's excesses is wishful thinking. It has nothing to do with Luxemburg.

Tracey Cobb

London N8