- Capitalism and Alternatives -

can't MAKE people want socialism

In Reply to: choosing a system posted by The Everett Citizen on November 14, 1997 at 20:37:49:

I think we must all keep in mind the fact that if you ever come across a 'socialist' who is forcibly 'converting' people (using violence, threats, etc...) you'll have found a non-socialist. Since socialism is FOR the PEOPLE, and the overwhelming MAJORITY of the PEOPLE, I can't imagine a socialist ever telling anyone else what to believe and want.

Personally, as a socialist, I would'nt WANT a 'socialist' world if it meant that the people having to deal with it weren't happy and getting what they want. I can't tell others what to fight for, and I most definately can't MAKE them want socialism. Socialism means pleasing everyone, and letting everyone control their life in the way that THEY see fit---whether I and other socialists 'approve' of it or not. Who am I to try and control another person's life?

I think that this COULD very well be where those so-called 'socialist' and 'communist' systems (China, Russia, E. Europe, etc...) went awry. What do you fellows think?

Follow Ups:

None.