Communism is an ideology and socioeconomic order aiming for a classless society, abolishing private property. Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels laid its foundations in works like the "Communist Manifesto" (1848) and "Das Kapital." Marx argued history is driven by class struggles and that capitalism inevitably leads to its own demise, replaced by a stateless, egalitarian society.
Historical Examples
Joseph StalinMao ZedongKim Jong Un
Soviet Union (USSR, 1922–1991): The first major state founded on Marxist principles. Led to rapid industrialization but also political repression, famine, and extensive labor camps (Gulag system).
People's Republic of China (1949–present): Under Mao Zedong, pursued land redistribution and the "Great Leap Forward," resulting in millions of deaths. Later reforms moved China toward a mixed economy.
Cuba (1959–present): Fidel Castro's revolution transformed Cuba into a one-party communist state with significant social programs but limited political freedoms.
Other examples: Vietnam, North Korea, Eastern European countries, and more.
The Gulag Archipelago
Written by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, "The Gulag Archipelago" (1973) documents the vast system of forced labor camps in the Soviet Union where millions were imprisoned or perished. The work is a powerful indictment of totalitarianism and abuse under communist regimes.
Key Criticisms
Historical attempts led to authoritarianism, lack of political freedoms, and mass repression.
Economic inefficiency, scarcity of goods, and disincentive to innovate.
Records of state violence, purges, and forced collectivization (e.g., famines in USSR/China).
What Defenders Say
Argue Marx's vision was never truly realized, with historical cases corrupted by external/institutional factors.
Point to gains in literacy, health, and industrialization achieved under communist states.
Emphasize a critique of capitalism: inequality, exploitation, and recurring crises.
