Being a Communist

[notyoueither]

Originally posted by Spiffor

Well, I can't depict the classless society very well, since I never was interested in what I hold for a fairy tale, but the difference is that there is no State, no classes, and the system works harmoniously.
"Socialism" does require regulations, it does require a State.

And Socialism doesn't advocate the end of all private property. Only the property of the means of production. Your house remains yours, like your computer, your car, your watch and so on. I don't think communism calls for the abolition of personal property either, but don't quote me on that.

I'm meaning means of production when I say private property.

And I agree, no state and no regulation is a fairy tale.

[Spiffor]

Originally posted by notyoueither
It seems to me that your dream requires more than one major failing for it to be realised.

One, capitalism would have to suffer a catastrophe on a scale of the Great Depression, or worse. That could well happen, and the middle class could be severely affected and look for change. Where would they look?

Actually, should capitalism suffer a great crisis, the socialdemocrats would probably win big if a revolution is avoided.

What is happening now, however, is a slow reversal toward pre-welfare capitalism. As more and more people suffer from the lack of protection (included the lower middle class), they'll more and more oppose the socialdemocratic parties who don't do anything against it.

[Theben]

Originally posted by notyoueither

One, capitalism would have to suffer a catastrophe on a scale of the Great Depression, or worse. That could well happen, and the middle class could be severely affected and look for change. Where would they look?

Would they look to moderates who propose a Newer Deal, or would they look to radicals who would overturn the foundations of the comfort the middle class themselves enjoy in better times?

Another good reason to keep the ideals of communism alive, since they are all but dead in the U.S. If that happened here most likely they'd turn to reactionary ideas for redress, both populist and fascist.

[notyoueither]

Originally posted by Spiffor

Actually, should capitalism suffer a great crisis, the socialdemocrats would probably win big if a revolution is avoided.

What is happening now, however, is a slow reversal toward pre-welfare capitalism. As more and more people suffer from the lack of protection (included the lower middle class), they'll more and more oppose the socialdemocratic parties who don't do anything against it.

I wouldn't say we're heading towards lazier faire society any time soon, but as I said, programs have to be paid for by this generation, not the next. That may require some choices.

I agree that a crisis would be very good for the prospects of social democrats.

[notyoueither]

Originally posted by Theben


Another good reason to keep the ideals of communism alive, since they are all but dead in the U.S. If that happened here most likely they'd turn to reactionary ideas for redress, both populist and fascist.

You don't think the Democrats have another FDR in them?

[MRT144]

NYE, , please be serious

[Guest]

Originally posted by Arrian


The same tune has been sung for quite a while now (since Marx wrote about it, in fact).

The thing is, "capitalist" societies have adapted, making compromises with socialism that have brought a measure of stability to the system. So the system Marx wrote about has evolved some. Given that, it is certainly reasonable to ask whether his analysis is still applicable (and that's even assuming it was applicable in the first place, which we capitalist pig dogs do not concede ).

-Arrian

Exactly...
Capitalism surely would have crumbled long ago if it was as inflexible as the version of it Marx attacked...
Arrian described the situation well...
When the revolution seems too close, the system gives in a little bit, and people get quiet...
Sort of an equilibrium...

[DaShi]

Originally posted by Tingkai
Edit: what's happening in China is that they are building a capitalist state knowing that it will eventually lead to a true communism. They're taking the long view, which is something that capitalists are incapable of doing, and that's another reason why capitalism is doomed to failure.

Why do people only living outside of China believe this? I've asked many Chinese people here if they think that China will eventually return to communism. Their first answer is usually yes. Then I ask, "Do you really believe that?" Which they reply, "No, not really, but we're supposed to." Seems like the propaganda machine is more effective outside of China than inside.

[Theben]

Originally posted by notyoueither


You don't think the Democrats have another FDR in them?

The current social climate is remarkedly different.

[:) Smiley]

Democracy and capitalism do a great job at creating a middle class and getting a majority of citizens happy. However, at least in the USA it neglects a large minority.

[Nubclear]

The masses in the US live a pitiful existence and don't even realise it.

[Lonestar]

Originally posted by Comrade Tassadar
The masses in the US live a pitiful existence and don't even realise it.

Well, the ones in Utah do, at least.

[Nubclear]

We live in the land of God What makes you think that we live a pitiful existence?

[Lonestar]

Originally posted by Comrade Tassadar
We live in the land of God What makes you think that we live a pitiful existence?

The salt flats?

I'm going out to blot out my pitiful drinking with some existence. 'Night.

[MrFun]

Originally posted by Imran Siddiqui
WHAT is your name?

WHAT is your quest?

WHAT is Marx's defintion of materialism?