"As we move to this election - there is no doubt that nationally, statewide and right here in Jefferson, Orange and Hardin County, the people are convinced that government will solve their problems. From schools, to health care, to government hand outs, economic development and free market pricing - we are convinced that government can solve our problems. And they call that socialism. And the next step from there is communism. " For a 'political consultant' you really should educate yourself on the differences between the various forms of government and economic systems. How much money have you made in the past five years advising on politics? Have you ever taught politics? Did you ever study politics (aside from High School civics). Since it is unlikely that you will read this short summary (much less understand it), let me take this opportunity to say that you would make a fair living as an 'idiot consultant'. For the politically impaired:
Socialism is an economic system, while Communism is a political system. Communists are socialists" in the same way that Republicans are "compassionate conservatives". They give lip service to ideals they have no intention of practicing.
Socialism is liberal. More people have some say in how the economy works just like democracy is liberal. More people have some say in how the government works.
Socialism allows for social problems to be eased by selective public ownership of crucial services, such as public utilities, while allowing capitalist enterprises to continue to function in other sectors of the economy. Socialism can impose controls on a nation's economy with the intention of keeping the price of essential goods, such as food and prescription drugs, within reasonable limits.
The way in which Socialism helps to ease social problems can prevent Communism from gaining support in Socialist nations. Some Communists would therefore be opposed to Socialism, as it removes, or at least weakens, the urge to impose near complete control over a nation's economy through Communist revolution. They would argue that people still suffer under Capitalism, but their incentive to overthrow a Capitalist government is undermined by Socialism, because Socialism mitigates Capitalism's worst excesses. This leads to complacency among those who could see greater benefits under a Communist government; the working class could have greater control over their lives under a Communist government, but Socialism weakens their resolve to fight for more, because they are satisfied enough with what they have under Socialism. To put it simply, when you and your children have food, education and health care, you will likely feel less inclined to overthrow your government in a violent revolution.
Additionally, Communism is conservative. Few people (usually just the Party Secretary) have any say in how the economy works. Republicans are conservative. Few people (usually just people controlling the Party figurehead) have any say in how the government works. Sam the Eagle
