

Edward Stuart on Capitalism vs Socialism vs Communism
Aug 26, 2020
Edward Stuart, Professor Emeritus of Economics, breaks down the nuances between capitalism, socialism, and communism. He examines China’s hybrid model and questions whether its economic success stems from capitalism or communism. Stuart discusses the notable differences between North and South Korea’s economies, the real implications of state capitalism, and why communism fails to achieve equality. He also touches on historical context, the potential for U.S. economic depression, and the complexities of hyperinflation versus money printing.
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Communism, Socialism, and Social Democracy
- Communism is characterized by government ownership of all means of production except labor and centrally planned distribution.
- Socialism allows for more private enterprise and political diversity than communism.
Social Democracy vs. Welfare State
- Social democracy and socialism differ from welfare states in the degree of government ownership and control.
- A welfare state has mostly private enterprise, but significant social redistribution and safety nets.
China: Not State Capitalism
- State capitalism is a misnomer for China, more accurately describing Nazi Germany.
- China's private sector exists at the whim of the state, unlike in true capitalist economies.