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The Reason Interview With Nick Gillespie

Sean McMeekin: Don't Whitewash the History of Communism

Feb 12, 2025
Sean McMeekin, a historian from Bard College and author of "To Overthrow the World," delves into the surprising resurgence of communism as a governing ideology. He discusses the violent history of communism, exploring figures like Stalin and Mao, and critiques the 'whitewashing' of Marx's violent roots. McMeekin also reflects on American attitudes toward communism, the concept of 'permanent revolution,' and how the political landscape today mirrors past ideologies. His insights provoke a reexamination of civil liberties and the enduring appeal of leftist thought.
01:21:27

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Sean McMeekin argues that communism, despite its historical violence, continues to resonate with modern audiences, particularly through its promise of enforced equality.
  • The violent underpinnings of communism, as advocated by Karl Marx, remain crucial in understanding the ideology's appeal and application through history.

Deep dives

The Resurgence of Communism

The discussion focuses on the claim that communism, despite the collapse of the Soviet Union, is not only alive but potentially expanding as a governing ideology. This assertion comes from Sean McMeekin, who suggests that the ideology's fundamental appeal, especially its emphasis on equality, has proven resilient and adaptable over time. He argues that key figures, such as Stalin and Mao, infused communism with variations that resonated globally, suggesting that communism has always thrived on violence and suppression as means to achieve enforced equality. McMeekin posits that contemporary examples, such as increasing government control during the COVID-19 pandemic, bear resemblance to historical communist practices of subjugation and the management of public discourse, raising concerns about the persistence of authoritarian methods.

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