Capitalism And Communism: Conflicting Interests

13 Pages 3148 Words

Introduction

The concepts and ideas involved with capitalism and communism allow for many conflicting interests. The two political structures produce many of the global controversies that have plagued any society that has implemented either system. Whether it be the centralized, “for the common good” characteristics that accompany communism, or the democratically individualized society and “ kill or be killed” economic theory implied applied by capitalism, each system, like any, has its pros and cons. Throughout the history of each system, there have been many influences that caused each to flourish or fail. The religious, economic, political, and social influences all played major roles in the advancement or destruction of both systems. In exploring the written accounts of either structure, you will see the perception of these advancements and failures have been painted on very different canvases.
Communism
Communism is a concept or system of society in which the major resources and means of production are owned by the community rather than by individuals. In theory, such societies provide for equal sharing of all work, according to ability, and all benefits, according to need. Some conceptions of communist societies assume that, ultimately, coercive government would be unnecessary and therefore that such a society would be without rulers. Until the ultimate stages are reached, however, communism involves the abolition of private property by a revolutionary movement; responsibility for meeting public needs is then vested in the state. (Daniels) As a concept of an ideal society, communism is derived from ancient sources, including Plato's Republic and the earliest Christian communities. In the early 19th century, the idea of a communist society was a response of the poor and the dislocated to the beginnings of modern capitalism.
At that time communism was the basis for a number of utopian settlements; most communi...