Between Utopia and Tyranny E-Book

Hermann Selchow

• Herausgeber: tredition
• Kategorie: Geisteswissenschaft
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Seitenzahl: 321

Beschreibung

With the new edition of my book "Between Utopia and Tyranny: The Fascination and Horror of Communism" I offer you an in-depth analysis of the phenomenon of "communism", introducing you to the history and ideologies behind one of the most influential political movements of the 20th century. Why was this ideology of horror able to gain so much influence and why does it seem to be gaining fascination again? Immerse yourself with me in the world of thought of Marx, Lenin and beyond. As we examine the dreams, challenges and reality of communism, we discover the reality that this ideology once created. To do this, we use the experiences of the countries where communism ruled and in some cases still rules and we shed light on individual fates that represent people who suffered under these systems. This new edition offers not only a comprehensive historical perspective, but also current analyses of why these ideas continue to polarize and inspire. Ideal for political science students, historians and anyone who wants to delve deeper into the political landscape. Get your copy now and expand your understanding of one of the most influential movements of our time! Hermann Selchow

Leseprobe

Between Utopia and Tyranny

The fascination and horror of communism

Between Utopia and Tyranny

The fascination and horror of communism

"To tell the truth is revolutionary."

Hannah Arendt

© 2024 Hermann Selchow

Printing and distribution on behalf of the author:

tredition GmbH, Heinz-Beusen-Stieg 5, 22926 Ahrensburg, Germany

The work, including its parts, is protected by copyright. The author is responsible for the content. Any use is prohibited without his consent. Publication and distribution are carried out on behalf of the author, reachable at: tredition GmbH, "Imprint Service" department, Heinz-Beusen-Stieg 5,

22926 Ahrensburg, Germany

Table of content

Foreword to the new edition

Why are left-wing views gaining influence in the Western world?

The birth of the idea of communism

Parallels between Christian teaching and communism

The beginnings of the communist movement

The theories of Marx and Engels

The emergence of communism as a political force

Communism in practice: Soviet Union

Communism in Practice: China

Communism in practice: Cuba

Communism in Practice: North Korea

Communism in Practice: Vietnam

Communism in practice: East Germany / GDR

The effects of communism on society

Children and young people under communism

The fall of communism in Europe

Criticism of communism

The future of communism - a critical review

Closing words

Foreword to the new edition

The world has changed in many ways since the first publication of Between Utopia and Tyranny - The Fascination and Terror of Communism. The new edition of this book comes at a time when discussions about political ideologies and their impact on societies have regained intensity. Communism, once hailed as a promise of salvation for the working masses and at the same time feared as a bogeyman of Western democracies, remains a controversial and often misunderstood topic. This new edition aims to shed new light on the multifaceted aspects of communism, taking a close look at historical developments and their modern interpretations.

In the decades since the end of the Cold War, new insights and perspectives have developed that make it necessary to re-examine the complex web of ideology, political practice and social realities. Communism, as it manifested itself in the 20th century, was far more than just a political movement; it was an experiment that affected the fate of millions of people and continues to resonate today.

This book has always striven not only to analyze the ideological foundations of communism, but also to examine the concrete historical examples in which that ideology was put into practice. From the October Revolution in Russia to the founding of the People's Republic of China to the revolutionary movements in Cuba and Vietnam, each of these chapters offers valuable insights into the successes and failures of communist rule.

This new edition expands on this examination by including more recent examples and developments. For example, the post-communist societies of Eastern Europe and the continued presence of communist parties in countries such as China and North Korea are examined in detail, with particular attention to how communist ideals have adapted to the challenges of globalization and the demands for economic modernization and social justice.

A central aim of this new edition is to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the appeal of communism. It is important to understand the utopian visions and promises of a classless society that have inspired many people. At the same time, however, we must not ignore the horrors that totalitarian regimes unleashed under the banner of communism. The Gulag, the Cultural Revolution, mass persecutions and economic disasters - all of these are dark chapters that shaped the reality of communism and that must not be concealed.

In recent years, historical research has made a wealth of new documents and reports available that make it possible to paint an even more detailed picture of communist states and their leaders. This new edition uses these sources to present the events and the people who shaped them in a lively and understandable way. It also looks at the role of intellectuals and artists who supported or criticized communism and who influenced public awareness through their works.

Another focus of this new edition is the analysis of the social and economic effects of communism. The planned economy, the collectivization of agriculture and the industrialization programs had profound consequences for the societies affected. These aspects are critically examined both from the perspective of the time and from today's point of view. In particular, the question of the extent to which communist economic policies promoted or hindered sustainable development is examined in detail.

Understanding communism also requires an examination of its philosophical and theoretical foundations. This new edition therefore offers an in-depth analysis of the writings of Marx, Engels, Lenin, Mao and other leading theorists. It shows how their ideas were interpreted and implemented and what contradictions and conflicts arose from them.

The question of what lessons can be learned from the history of communism is particularly relevant for today. In view of current political and social challenges, from increasing inequality to ecological crises, many people are looking for alternative models of society. Communism, despite its historical burden, remains a source of inspiration and discourse on possible paths to a fairer and more sustainable world.

This new edition of “Between Utopia and Tyranny” invites readers to embark on a journey through the history and ideology of communism.

They should be encouraged to explore the many dimensions of this complex political movement, to reflect critically and to draw their own conclusions. Communism was and is a phenomenon that has had a profound impact on humanity - in its ability to arouse great hopes and stir up equally great fears.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the creation and revision of this book. The tireless work of historians, sociologists, economists and many other experts has made it possible to create a work that does justice to the complexity of the subject. My special thanks go to the readers, whose interest and critical feedback have always been a source of inspiration. May this new edition help to keep the discussion about communism and its effects alive and fruitful.

Hermann Selchow

Why are left-wing views gaining influence in the Western world?

In recent decades, a remarkable shift has taken place in the political landscape of the Western world. Left-wing political views, once positioned at the fringes of the political spectrum, are increasingly gaining influence and popularity. This phenomenon is not only observed in Europe and North America, but has also manifested itself in other parts of the world. This chapter is devoted to a detailed analysis of the causes and factors that have contributed to this development.

A fundamental factor in the rise of left-wing political ideas is the increasing inequality in many Western societies. Since the 1980s, neoliberal economic policies have led to a significant increase in income and wealth inequality. The deregulation and restructuring of markets, the privatization of public services and the weakening of trade unions have promoted economic growth, but at the same time have widened the gap between rich and poor. This development has led to growing discontent among broad sections of the population, who feel increasingly alienated from the political and economic elite. Left-wing parties and movements are capitalizing on this discontent by advocating for social justice, redistribution, and stronger regulation of markets.

Another significant aspect is demographic change in Western countries. Younger generations, especially millennials and Generation Z, show a stronger inclination toward left-wing political ideas than their parents and grandparents. This is partly because these generations have grown up in an era where issues such as climate change, social justice, and diversity play an increasingly promoted centralized role. They have grown up with the Internet and social media, which provide them with access to a wealth of information and diverse perspectives. This has led to a greater awareness of global issues and a stronger rejection of traditional conservative values. Left-wing parties and movements have managed to successfully integrate these issues into their programs, thus gaining the support of younger voters.

The increasing importance of education in Western societies also contributes to the popularity of left-wing ideas. Colleges and universities are often centers of intellectual discourse and critical engagement with social and political issues. In these institutions, progressive ideas and values are promoted, which then spread throughout wider society. Studies show that people with higher levels of education tend to be more progressive and open to left-wing ideologies. This partly explains why left-wing parties are more represented in urban areas, which are often also centres of education.

Globalisation and the social and economic changes that come with it also play a central role. While the increasing interconnectedness of the global economy has brought many benefits, it has also led to disruption and uncertainty. The loss of jobs in traditional industries, the increase in precarious working conditions and the threat of international competition have caused fear and uncertainty among many people. Left-wing parties and movements are committed to protecting workers' rights, safeguarding jobs and creating a strong social safety net, which ensures them the support of groups disadvantaged by globalisation.

Another important element is the increasing promotion of gender and identity politics. In recent years, movements fighting for the rights of women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized groups have gained visibility and influence. Left-wing political groups have included these concerns in their programs and positioned themselves as advocates of these movements. This has earned them the support of these groups and helped to broaden their political base.

The impact of the 2008 financial crisis and the austerity policies that followed cannot be underestimated either. The crisis has shaken many people's trust in the existing economic system and the established political parties. The austerity measures introduced in many countries in response to the crisis have weakened social protection systems and worsened the living conditions of many people. Left-wing parties and movements have opposed these measures and proposed alternative solutions aimed at social balance and economic stability. This has given them great support in many countries, especially in Southern Europe.

Digitalisation and the changing world of work also play an important role. Automation and digitalisation have not only created new opportunities and jobs, but also threatened traditional working models and places. The uncertainty that comes with these changes has raised fears in many people. Left-wing parties and movements have taken up these fears and are committed to shaping the digital transformation in a humane and fair way, for example by calling for an unconditional basic income and the protection of workers' rights.

Climate change and environmental crises are other crucial factors. The increasing urgency with which these issues must be addressed has led to a rise in support for green and left-wing parties that advocate for a radical transformation of the economy towards greater sustainability. Younger voters in particular, who are experiencing the consequences of climate change directly and want to protect future generations, are increasingly supporting parties that take a clear position in favour of climate protection.

In summary, the rise of left-wing political sentiments in the Western world can be attributed to a variety of factors. Increasing inequality, demographic change, the role of education, the impact of globalization, the importance of identity politics, the aftermath of the financial crisis, digital transformation and the urgency of climate change have all contributed to the rise of left-wing ideas and parties. These developments reflect a deep need for social justice, economic security and environmental sustainability that is increasingly important in many Western societies.

The phenomenon of ideologies based on fact denial and rhetoric spreading despite the Internet providing everyone with the same information and facts is complex and can be explained by a combination of psychological, social and technical factors. The main reasons are detailed below:

Confirmation bias: People tend to seek, interpret and remember information that confirms their existing beliefs. The Internet offers an almost infinite amount of information, making it possible to selectively consume content that supports one's own views while ignoring or rejecting contradictory information.

Filter bubbles and echo chambers: Social media and search engine algorithms are designed to show content that matches users' interests and previous behavior patterns. This leads to so-called filter bubbles, in which people are mainly confronted with information and opinions that reflect their own beliefs. Echo chambers reinforce this by encouraging the repetition and reinforcement of these beliefs by like-minded communities.

Emotional appeal and simple explanations of complex processes: Ideologies based on phrases and simplified explanations are often more emotionally appealing and easier to understand than complex, fact-based arguments. They offer clear culprits and simple solutions to complex problems, which can be particularly attractive in uncertain and chaotic times.

Social identity and group affiliation: People have a strong need for social affiliation and identity. Ideologies that offer clear group affiliation and differentiation from "the others" can satisfy this need. In online communities, people find like-minded people who share their beliefs and reinforce their point of view.

Distrust of traditional media and institutions: Increasing distrust of traditional media, scientific institutions and government agencies contributes to the spread of fact-denying ideologies. Conspiracy theories and alternative facts capitalize on this distrust by claiming to provide the “true” information that the mainstream media is allegedly hiding.

Disinformation campaigns and propaganda: Organized disinformation campaigns, often supported by state actors or interest groups, contribute significantly to the spread of ideological content based on fact-denial. These campaigns deliberately use social media to spread false or misleading information and sow doubt about scientific findings and established facts.

Cognitive dissonance: People have a natural defensive attitude towards information that contradicts their deeply held beliefs and identities.

This leads them to reject or rationalize such information to avoid cognitive dissonance. Ideologies that offer simple and consistent worldviews reduce the discomfort caused by contradictory information.

Lack of media literacy: Many people are not adequately trained to critically engage with information they find online. Media literacy includes the ability to evaluate the credibility of sources, distinguish facts from opinions, and recognize disinformation. Without these skills, people are more vulnerable to misleading and false information.

Emotional and psychological needs: Ideologies based on fact denial often fulfill deep-seated emotional and psychological needs, such as the need for meaning, security, and control. In a complex and often frightening world, they offer simple answers and a sense of community and belonging.

Manipulation by influencers and charismatic leaders: Charismatic personalities and influencers who appear persuasive and tell emotional stories can build large followings and spread their ideological views widely. Their followers are often willing to trust and spread their statements, even if they contradict established facts.

In summary, the availability of information on the Internet alone is not enough to prevent the spread of ideological beliefs based on fact denial. Psychological mechanisms, social dynamics and technical structures play a crucial role in how people process information and which beliefs they adopt. A better understanding of these processes is crucial to developing strategies that can effectively combat the spread of disinformation and anti-factual ideologies.

A key aspect of why new left ideas attract and politically promote a significant number of poorly educated people is their focus on social justice and economic redistribution. These issues speak directly to the realities of life and concerns of people who feel economically disadvantaged and often have limited access to higher education.

Dissatisfaction with the status quo: Many people who find themselves in precarious employment or economically insecure situations are disappointed with the existing system and its institutions. The promises of neoliberal policies – such as economic growth and jobs – have often not been fulfilled for these groups. Left-wing ideas that emphasize social security and economic justice offer an attractive alternative here.

Direct address and simple solutions: Left-wing political movements and parties often talk about social problems in clear and understandable language and offer simple solutions. This is especially important for people with little education who feel excluded from complex political and economic discussions. The message of redistribution and justice is easy to understand and addresses the immediate needs of these people.

Solidarity and sense of community: Left-wing ideas often emphasize the importance of solidarity and social cohesion. For people who feel socially marginalized, this emphasis on community offers a welcome alternative to a neoliberal economic system that is often perceived as cold and impersonal. The prospect of a supportive community and solidarity with others in similar situations is a strong motivating factor.

Criticism of elite rule: Left-wing movements and parties often criticize the power and influence of economic and political elites. For people with less education who feel that their voice is not heard and their interests are ignored by the elites, this criticism offers a point of identification. They feel understood and represented by left-wing rhetoric that fights against the injustices of the ruling system.

Greater accessibility through media and activism: Left-wing ideas are often spread through easily accessible media and through direct activism. Social media plays a large role in spreading left-wing messages and mobilizing people who otherwise have little access to traditional sources of political information. Protest movements and grassroots organizations also offer direct opportunities for participation and political involvement.

Focus on social programs and public services: Left-wing parties are committed to expanding social programs and public services that are particularly important for people with little education and low income. Access to health care, education and social support are key concerns that directly affect the quality of life of these populations and therefore gain their support.

Education policy and equal opportunities: Left-wing parties and movements often emphasize the importance of equal opportunities and a fair education system. They are committed to breaking down educational barriers and offering equal educational opportunities to all people, regardless of their socioeconomic background. These demands resonate particularly strongly with those who find the existing educational system inadequate and discriminatory.

Hope for social advancement: For many people with little education, supporting left-wing ideas offers hope for social advancement and economic improvement. Left-wing programs that focus on improving social infrastructure and creating jobs promise concrete improvements in living conditions.

In summary, left-wing political ideas and movements are attractive to poorly educated people because they directly address their realities and needs. The emphasis on social justice, economic redistribution, community and solidarity appeals directly to these population groups and offers them hope for a better and fairer future. The clear and understandable communication of left-wing ideas and the opportunity to actively participate and help shape them further contribute to these people being attracted to and supporting left-wing political movements.

The low chance of a comeback of the new left ideology in formerly communist countries and regions can be explained by a variety of historical, cultural and political factors. These factors include the historical experience with communism, the associated traumas, the distrust of state control and planned economy, as well as the cultural and political developments since the collapse of communism.

Historical experiences and trauma: People in former communist countries often had painful experiences with communism, including economic inefficiency, political repression, human rights violations, and a lack of individual freedoms. These negative experiences have left deep scars and generated a strong distrust of any political ideology that might be reminiscent of communism.

Economic failures and poverty: The economic problems that characterized many communist regimes have left the population deeply skeptical of central planning and state control of the economy. The inefficient administration and often disastrous economic results of communism have severely shaken confidence in left-wing economic policy models.

Political repression and human rights abuses: Political repression and systematic human rights abuses in many communist states have left a lasting legacy. The suppression of dissidents, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the existence of secret police and surveillance have permanently damaged trust in left-wing ideologies that emphasize state control and intervention.

Rise of nationalism and conservatism: After the collapse of communism, many formerly communist countries have experienced a turn toward nationalist and conservative ideologies. These movements often emphasize traditional values, national sovereignty, and a rejection of excessive state intervention, which stands in stark contrast to left-wing ideologies.

Influence of Western values and market economy: The opening to Western values and the market economy after the end of communism has led to a positive image of capitalism and liberal democracy in many countries. The benefits of the free market and individual freedom valued in many Western democracies contrast with memories of state-controlled communism.

Generational change and education: Younger generations in former communist countries often have no direct experience of communism, but grew up in a time of transition to a market economy and democracy. These generations are more inclined to accept Western values and economic models, which they perceive as more successful and freer than the communist systems of their parents and grandparents.

Culture of remembrance and historical reappraisal: In many former communist countries, the crimes and failures of communist regimes are intensively reappraised. Museums, memorials and public discussions help to anchor the negative aspects of communism in the collective memory and thus make the comeback of left-wing ideologies more difficult.

Political and economic transformation: The political and economic transformations after the end of communism have led many former communist countries on a course of reform, liberalization and integration into international institutions. These developments have often brought positive economic results and political stability, which reduces the need for a return to left-wing ideologies.

Role of civil society and media: In many former communist countries, a strong civil society and independent media play an important role in promoting democratic values and critically examining the past. These actors help to create awareness of the benefits of democracy and the dangers of authoritarian ideologies.

In summary, the historical burden of communism, the associated economic and political failures, as well as the social and cultural developments since the end of communism are key factors in ensuring that the new left ideology has little chance of making a comeback in former communist countries and regions. The collective memory and the positive experiences with market economy and democratic reforms have anchored a deep distrust of left ideologies in these societies.

In this chapter, I have tried to explain why left-wing political sentiments are gaining influence in the Western world and why they are also appealing to poorly educated people and to predominantly young people who are accustomed to prosperity. It also highlighted how, despite the availability of information on the Internet, ideologies based on denial of facts and simplistic phrases can spread.

It has been shown that the rise of left-wing ideas is rooted in a complex interplay of various social, economic and cultural factors. Increasing inequality, disappointed expectations of the neoliberal economic system, demographic change and the growing desire for social justice and sustainability play a central role here. Left-wing political movements specifically address the needs and fears of people who feel disadvantaged and excluded by the existing system. This is especially true for people with less education, who are often directly affected by economic insecurity and social injustice.

The spread of ideologies based on fact-denial can be explained by a variety of psychological and social mechanisms, despite the availability of information on the Internet. Confirmation bias, filter bubbles and echo chambers, emotional attraction, social identity, distrust of traditional media, disinformation campaigns, cognitive dissonance, lack of media literacy, emotional needs and manipulation by charismatic leaders play a crucial role in this. These factors lead people to selectively absorb and process information that confirms their existing beliefs and emotional needs.

In summary, the influence of left-wing political ideas and the spread of fact-denying ideologies are deeply rooted in the social and psychological structures of our society. In order to better understand these phenomena and to effectively counter them, it is necessary to analyze the underlying mechanisms and develop strategies aimed at education, media literacy and the promotion of critical public discourse. Only in this way can an informed and rational political culture based on facts and evidence-based discussions be promoted.

But let us examine the origins of the idea of communism in order to better understand the current situation, especially in the Western world.

The birth of the idea of communism

The idea of communism, as a visionary political and economic system based on equality and collective ownership, has a long and complex history. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, where concepts of a communal society were already being discussed in some philosophical schools. However, it was in the 19th century, amid the industrial revolution and social upheaval, that communism was born as a political ideology.

A crucial moment in the emergence of communism was the publication of the "Communist Manifesto" in 1848. This groundbreaking work was written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels and presented the foundations of the communist idea for the first time. Marx and Engels analyzed the social and economic structure of their time and argued that capitalism inevitably leads to class division and social injustice.

In their work, Marx and Engels described communism as a form of society in which ownership of the means of production is in the hands of the community. They predicted the collapse of the capitalist system and the subsequent transition to communism as a historical necessity. The "Communist Manifesto" had a tremendous impact on the political movements of the time and became the basis for many communist parties and revolutions in the decades to come.

The rise of communism as a political force was closely linked to the social and economic conditions of the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution had led to widespread changes: mass production, urbanization, and the emergence of a new working class were features of the period. Workers lived in cramped conditions, worked long hours, and were often exploited. These conditions fueled discontent and led to growing support for socialist and communist ideas.

The birth of communism as a political ideology, however, was not the work of Marx and Engels alone. There were many thinkers and activists who contributed to the development of communist theory. One of them was the French socialist Louis Blanc, who developed the idea of a just society without class distinctions in his work "The Organization of Labor." Blanc argued that the state should play an active role in organizing the economy to reduce inequality and promote the welfare of all citizens.

Another important contribution to the emergence of communism came from German philosopher and economist Friedrich Engels. Engels was a close friend and collaborator of Marx and played a crucial role in the development and spread of communist ideas. In his work The Condition of the Working Class in England, Engels examined the effects of capitalism on the working class and argued that the capitalist mode of production inevitably leads to exploitation and injustice. These findings had a major influence on Marx and helped him further develop his theories.

Communism as a political movement began to take shape in the 19th century. Socialist and communist parties emerged, advocating for workers' rights and demanding changes in society. These parties organized strikes, demonstrations, and political campaigns to draw attention to the ills of the capitalist system and to advocate for a more just society.

A significant milestone in the history of communism was the Paris Commune of 1871. The Paris Commune was a revolutionary attempt to seize control of Paris from the central government and establish a communist society. Although the Paris Commune was ultimately crushed, it had strong symbolic significance and inspired communist movements worldwide.

Throughout the 20th century, communism became increasingly influential. The Russian Revolution of 1917 led to the creation of the Soviet Union, the world's first communist state. Under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin and later Joseph Stalin, the Soviet Union attempted to build a socialist society in which the means of production were in the hands of the state.

The ideas of communism spread to other countries as well. In China, the communist revolution led by Mao Zedong led to the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Other countries such as Cuba, Vietnam, and North Korea followed suit and established communist regimes.

During the 20th century, communism became a central theme of the Cold War, the conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. The United States and its allies viewed communism as a threat to democracy and capitalism, while the Soviet Union saw communism as a path to the liberation of the oppressed classes.

Despite the influence and spread of communism, the communist experiment has faced challenges and difficulties in many countries. Critics argue that communism in practice has led to authoritarian regimes, human rights abuses, and economic problems. These criticisms raise questions about how communism can be implemented in reality and what impact it has on individual freedoms and the welfare of society.

Today, communism does not have the same importance as it did in the past. After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, communism lost influence as a political force. Many communist regimes were overthrown or reformed into socialist or mixed economic systems.

Nevertheless, communist parties and ideas continue to exist in various parts of the world. Some countries, such as Cuba, hold on to the communist system, while others, such as China and Vietnam, have moved to "free-market socialism." In some cases, communist parties have also united with democratic institutions and principles.

The idea of communism remains a topic of continuous discussion and debate. Proponents of communism argue that it is a means of overcoming inequality and exploitation and can enable a more just society. They emphasize the need for collective effort and a redistribution of resources for the benefit of all people. This often assumes a simplistic view of society that ignores many parts of a political structure.

On the other hand, there are still critics who point to the historical examples of communist regimes in which oppression and human rights violations occurred. They emphasize the importance of individual freedom, property rights and a market economy and argue that these principles provide a better foundation for a prosperous society.

In recent decades, discussions about communism have expanded to include new challenges such as digitalization and the increasing automation of work. Some thinkers have attempted to combine communism with ecological principles, developing an "ecological or green" variant of communism that focuses on sustainability and the protection of natural resources. This perspective also completely ignores countless facets of social design.

Overall, the birth of the idea of communism remains an important milestone in the history of political ideologies. It has been shaped by various thinkers and activists and has led to profound social and political changes. Although communism is less present as a political force today, it remains a source of debate and engagement with fundamental questions of justice, social organization, and the economic system.

Parallels between Christian teaching and communism

During the "1st Industrial Revolution" social contradictions escalated. While industrialists made enormous profits, workers and their families became impoverished. At the same time, people increasingly distanced themselves from the church because they found no practical help there. Society became increasingly secularized. But the desire for justice, freedom and equality remained. A gap arose in the ideologies and the desire to see these desires met. The idea of communism fell on precisely this fertile ground in the 19th century. It seemed to serve precisely these desires and wishes.

In this chapter we want to look at the interesting parallels between Christian teachings and communism. At first glance these two ideologies seem to be very different, but on closer inspection we can discover remarkable similarities and similar principles. Both Christian teachings and communism aim to create a just and harmonious society in which people work together in solidarity and material goods are distributed fairly.

Let us now take a closer look at the various aspects of these two ideologies and discover the astonishing parallels. The fascination of both ideas is anchored in the principle of "hope", which makes it possible to keep putting off the promised "paradise". Both ideas do not allow themselves to be doubted, but always seek to blame people's lack of understanding and comprehension. The sentence by Lenin, the Russian revolutionary leader, "The teachings of Karl Marx are all-powerful because they are true" sounds more like a religious creed than a philosophically thought-out insight.

A fundamental principle in both Christian teachings and communism is the idea of community and solidarity. Christian teachings emphasize the importance of love for one's neighbor, caring for the poor and disadvantaged, and shared responsibility for the well-being of society. Similarly, communism propagates the idea of a classless society in which all people should live together as a community and support one another in solidarity. Both ideologies strive for a society in which social differences are overcome and everyone has equal rights and opportunities. But always with the exception of the leading force. This sees its own task as so important for the community that it can and may do what is denied to everyone else.

Another important aspect that can be found in both Christian teaching and communism is the pursuit of justice and equality. Christian teaching emphasizes that all people are equal before God and that material wealth is not the only measure of prosperity and happiness. Similarly, communism emphasizes the need for a fair distribution of resources and the abolition of privileges in order to achieve social justice. Both Christian teaching and communism are against the exploitation of people and strive for a society in which everyone is treated equally.

Another common element in Christian teaching and communism is the emphasis on renunciation and sharing. In Christian teaching, giving up selfish desires and sharing with others is considered an essential part of the Christian life. Similarly, communism emphasizes the idea of shared ownership and collective use of resources. Both ideologies teach that personal possessions are less important than the welfare of the community and that individual sacrifice contributes to the welfare of all. However, this is not the case for those who spread these same teachings, as we know from the past and present.

Despite the remarkable parallels between Christian teachings and communism, there are also critical aspects that cannot be ignored. One of the main criticisms relates to the implementation of these ideologies in the real world. Both Christianity and communism have been interpreted and implemented by different groups and regimes throughout history, often leading to abuse and oppression. The combination of religion and politics can lead to authoritarian structures and abuse of power, as was the case in some communist regimes or historical periods of Christianity.

Another criticism relates to the different interpretations and interpretations of these ideologies. Both Christianity and communism are broad concepts that have been interpreted in different ways by different schools of thought and thinkers. There are different schools of thought within Christianity and Communism, each with different emphases and different ways of achieving their goals. This diversity of interpretations can lead to conflict and disagreement, which has often led to factional infighting throughout history.

It is also important to note that there are also fundamental differences between Christianity and Communism. Christianity is a religious doctrine based on faith in God and revelation in the Bible. It includes not only social and political aspects, but also spiritual and personal beliefs. Communism, on the other hand, is an officially secular ideology that focuses on social and political equality, but does not require conventional religious belief. Nevertheless, it uses several principles that are strikingly similar to those of Christianity.

It is important to keep these differences in mind and not to overlook the fact that Christianity and Communism ultimately have different origins and goals.

There are obviously remarkable parallels between Christian doctrine and communism. Both ideologies demand solidarity, justice and equality from the community, as well as renunciation and sharing, while their advocates claim special rights and capitalist prosperity for themselves. Both aim to create a just and harmonious society in which all people have equal rights and opportunities, and yet throughout their history they have mercilessly persecuted deviants and doubters.

However, it is also important to recognize that there are tensions and conflicts between Christian doctrine and communism, as both claim to be the only "salvation" path and tolerate no other "happiness." In particular, theological and ethical questions could arise when it comes to dealing with individual property, the value of work and the role of the state. These questions are complex and deserve careful reflection and discussion.

In conclusion, we can say that the parallels between Christianity and communism are interesting and allow for a deeper understanding of the underlying values and principles of both ideologies. However, it is important to note their differences and critical aspects. A comprehensive discussion of these issues requires further study and open dialogue to arrive at an informed opinion.

This text has attempted to explore the parallels between Christianity and communism, to show their similarities and differences, and to provide insight into the complex relationship between religion and political ideology. This discourse can serve as a starting point for further investigation and lead to a more comprehensive consideration of this fascinating topic.

The beginnings of the communist movement

The chapter "The Beginnings of the Communist Movement" traces the origin and development of one of the most important political ideologies of the 19th and 20th centuries. Communism, as a political and social movement, has had a profound influence on world history and shaped numerous political systems. To understand the roots of this ideology, it is important to take a look at the historical, social and economic framework that led to its emergence.

The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, brought massive changes in production and working conditions. The introduction of machines and the shift from artisanal to factory production led to a profound restructuring of society. However, these changes were accompanied by numerous social problems, including poverty, exploitation and inequality.

It was mainly the workers who suffered under the new conditions of production. They were often employed at low wages, worked in dangerous environments and were exposed to inadequate working conditions. The social injustice and exploitation that accompanied the Industrial Revolution led to growing resentment and resistance against the prevailing capitalist system.