Socialism and authoritarianism seem to be representing different ways of thinking for society. Socialism is about equality and justice for all people, while authoritarianism is about power and control over the masses. But with modern politics, these boundaries are blurred; we see socialist governments with authoritarian tendencies. This blog post will discuss whether or not socialism and authoritarianism can exist together.
Characteristics of Socialism
Socialism is a “political and economic theory of social organization which advocates that the means of production, distribution, and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole” [Source].
According to a Marxist view, socialism was born to deal with a capitalist system that is oppressive to the workers. Marx predicted that this relationship would not endure, and employees would rebel and establish a socialist system.
This society believes in equality, and everyone will be treated the same with zero presence of social classes. An elected government is given authority to own the means of production and oversee the distribution of wealth. Social and individual needs will be dealt with by everyone contributing to the economy and getting a return for their efforts.
Characteristics of Authoritarianism
Authoritarianism is a form of government in which political plurality is rejected. A powerful central power is used to preserve the political status quo. The rule of law, separation of powers, and democratic voting are all threatened. [Source].
An authoritarian government has excessive power over the people, and the leader is associated with the military [Source]. Through political oppression, the government maintains its grip on power. The objectives of any regime are bolstered by individuals who are organized through political parties and mass organizations. There is an indefinite political tenure of one ruling party or any other authority.
The most significant features of this system were the use of ideology to influence people, limitations on political processes to stifle a revolt, the rulers making all vital decisions, reduction in human rights and liberties, and an iron fist in the rule.
Difference between Socialism and Authoritarianism
The primary distinction is that socialism emphasizes social ownership of production. In contrast, authoritarianism favors a dictator or military authority for governance. Socialism’s power is embedded in the democratic society, and authoritarianism’s power lies in the hands of a few people.
Examples of Socialism
Socialism is seen in various policies implemented worldwide. These policies aim to satisfy the social and individual needs of the masses. These include Medicare, social security, the minimum wage, and child labor laws common in Sweden, the US, and the UK [Source]. Any initiative channeled towards the public can be described as socialist practices such as public transport and public schools.
Examples of Authoritarianism
Authoritarianism was seen during the reign of Haile Selassie in Ethiopia. Another form of authority is in China, stating that “Only Communist party members may serve in the Chinese government.” In today’s world of democracy and personal liberty, China still has a long way to go governing its nation. ” [Source].
Does Socialism go hand in hand with Authoritarianism?
Gelyn Miranda argued that “both Socialism and Authoritarianism need each other to work” [Source], and explained by saying that “Socialism needs an authoritarian form of social management to compel and subjugate people to stop them from engaging in free economic activities outside the consent of the State. Because that is what humans do, we trade freely when there is an opportunity to do so. We build stuff; we are creative organisms. We tailored our solution based on our personal needs. Socialism cannot work if people can do those things in private.
Authoritarianism requires the centralized economic management control of Socialism; otherwise, individuals would trade amongst themselves, in which case the authoritarian regime’s power and authority over its people would be lost. To control the people, you need to control the fundamental source of their sustenance and survival, and that is the economy”.
Under socialism, the elected government can regulate all economic, social, and political behaviors. In an article titled ‘Socialism Must Be Authoritarian,’ Charles Baird concluded that “Socialism and authoritarianism are inseparable” [Source].
Non-Authoritarian Socialism
In theory, socialism appears as if it does not use any authoritarian practices since it supports a well-functioning government through democratic processes. But it does aim at having a high hierarchy in society. If a government owns the means of production and how wealth is distributed and checks if a person gets returns based on what they contributed, that is a form of authority.
The only difference is that authority under socialism is not linked to the military or a dictator and is inclined to democracy. Practically, this would be hard to put in place, but that is the basis of non-authoritarian socialism.
Was Max Authoritarian
Karl Max was the founder of Marxism, a “method of socioeconomic analysis that uses a materialist interpretation of historical development, better known as historical materialism, to understand class relations and social conflict as well as a dialectical perspective to view social transformation” [Source]. He set the social transition from a capitalist state to a socialist, finally reaching communism.
In these proposed Marxist ideas, a central state or government is always used to achieve goals, becoming an authoritarian society.
Is Socialism Libertarian?
The existence of libertarian socialism might prove that socialism is libertarian. “Libertarian Socialism (sometimes called Socialist Libertarianism or Free Socialism) is a political philosophy that advocates for the ability of people to directly control the institutions that control them such as schools, workplaces, community, and culture.”
The main difference between libertarian and socialist is that libertarians desire to be individually happy, whereas socialists wish to make everyone happy. This implies that libertarians want to enjoy freedom while socialist seeks equality. But these two can mix since they advocate for people’s freedom and are against any form of authority control.
Authoritarian Socialist countries
The Soviet Union, China, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Vietnam, Laos, Venezuela, and Belarus are authoritarian socialist countries [Source].
Authoritarian Capitalism vs. Socialism
Authoritarian capitalism is an economic system where an authoritarian style co-exists with capitalism [Source] like in Nazi Germany and Russia under Putin, and socialism is a philosophy that advocates for equality and the abolishment of a capitalistic system. The distinction between the two lies in their authority, which socialism does not need in society. But, Authoritarian capitalism trusts a strong authority that gets involved in economic matters.
From a Marxist view, authoritarian capitalism can be regarded as an enemy of socialism, bringing inequality and social classes. Socialism is against capitalism because capitalists promote individual growth over social growth. In theory, these two concepts bump, but countries such as China seem to have all these factors in play.
Is Socialism Undemocratic?
The principles of socialism are democratic as people are allowed to exercise their freedom. In addition, the government or state has been voted into power. Socialism is born after a capitalist system is removed, so socialists are democrats who fulfill the needs of the public.
Authoritarian Socialism examples
Authoritarian socialism is observed in China, Russia, and the Nasser regime in Egypt, where the state owns or influences almost all aspects of production.
