Communism and Socialism are similar, but not synonymous.
According to socialist theorists, to reach a communist society it is first necessary to go through the stage of socialism.
Socialism
Socialism emerged from a critique of capitalism and liberalism made by various thinkers such as Karl Marx, Proudhon, Engels, Saint-Simon, Robert Owen. Most advocated the abolition of private property as a way of building a just and egalitarian society.
Gradually these ideas would turn into organized political parties. Some used violent methods to overthrow the liberal regimes of the countries where they lived.
Divisions among socialists already existed in the 19th century and deepened during the Russian Revolution in 1917. While Trotsky wanted to spread the socialist revolution throughout the world, Stalin wanted it to be confined to Russia and its republics.
There are many strands of socialism such as Bolshevik, Maoist, Trotky, among others.
Read:
- Socialism
- Scientific Socialism
- Utopian Socialism
Communism
Communism will only be implanted when the means of production and property belong to the State. Thus, he will identify himself in such a way with society that he will cease to exist.
Even individuals will be extremely adapted to the commitment to realize the common good and the happiness of the community that will be free. There will be no social classes because everyone will be equal and have the same opportunities.
The individual will not be confined to only one profession or specialization:on the contrary, he will be able to exercise several occupations.
In other words, communism would be a utopia and what would have been put into practice by different governments was socialism.
Learn more about Communism.
20th century
However, during the 20th century communists and socialists differed mainly in the methods of achieving power.
- Communists believed they could implement the socialist system through arms;
- For their part, the socialists defined themselves as reformists and wanted to come to power through the vote, while preserving liberal democracy.
However, both had fascism as a common enemy.
Communist and Socialist Parties in Brazil
In Brazil there are a variety of parties that name themselves communist and socialist. Likewise, there are those who only use some socialist ideas in their government programs, but without wanting to change the existing social structure.
Examples of some Brazilian communist and socialist parties:
- PCB – Brazilian Communist Party
- PC do B – Communist Party of Brazil
- PSTU – Socialist United Workers Party
- PSOL – Socialism and Liberty Party
- PSB – Brazilian Socialist Party
Read more:
Differences between Capitalism and Socialism
Fascism