SOCIAL ism

Early thinkers like Robert Owen and Charles Fourier advocated for small-scale, ideal communities where cooperation replaced competition.

The most influential socialist theory came from Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels with their Communist Manifesto (1848). They argued that capitalism creates class struggles between the bourgeoisie (capital owners) and the proletariat (workers), and predicted that the working class would eventually rise up, abolish capitalism, and establish a classless, stateless society.

The first major socialist state was established after the Russian Revolution of 1917, led by Vladimir Lenin. This resulted in the creation of the Soviet Union, which followed a Marxist-Leninist model.

Socialism gained further momentum in the 20th century, particularly after WWII, with the rise of socialist or social-democratic governments in parts of Europe and Asia. These movements aimed at reducing the extremes of capitalism while maintaining democratic institutions.

While pure socialism as envisioned by Marx has not fully materialized, many countries have adopted socialist policies or ideologies to various degrees. Some examples of socialist or formerly socialist states include

1. Cuba
2. Chaina
3. Vietnam
4. Laos
5. North korea

1. Karl Marx
2. Viladmir Lenin
3. Che Guevar
4. Fidal castro
5. Hugo Chávez: - Venezuelan president

In simple terms, communism and socialism are both about sharing resources to reduce inequality, but they differ in how far they go.

Key Differences:

- Socialism: Still allows for personal property and can work within a democracy.

- Communism: Aims for a classless society where everything is owned collectively, with no private property.

Socialism = Sharing key services while allowing some private ownership.

Communism = No private ownership at all, and everything is shared equally.