Definition
In theory, communism envisions the end of class divisions, private ownership of major productive assets, and ultimately the state itself. In practice, communist parties have often created centralized one-party states.
Political Dictionary
Communism
Communism is an ideology seeking a classless society with common ownership of productive resources.
Why It Matters
It has shaped revolutions, geopolitical conflict, economic systems, and human-rights debates.
How It Works
Communist regimes typically used party control, nationalization, and central planning, though practices varied.
History
Communist movements grew from Marxist thought and gained state power after the Russian Revolution and elsewhere in the twentieth century.
Example
The Soviet Union organized much of its economy through state ownership and planning.
Common Misconceptions
- Communism is simply any government welfare program.
- Every communist system reached the stateless society described in theory.
- Communism and democratic socialism are identical.
Related Terms
Related Topics
See Also