049 | Socialism and Communism 101 with Matt Bernico
Aug 8, 2020
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Matt Bernico, co-host of the Magnificast podcast and digital strategist in the labor movement, joins the host to discuss socialism and communism. They explore the basics of Marxism, capitalism's impact on society, media bias, concentration of wealth, and the principles of socialism and communism. They also delve into the connection between owning the means of production, spirituality, and relationships, emphasizing the need for community and reparations for marginalized groups.
Marxism provides a Christian perspective to address oppression and fight against systems of exploitation and injustice.
Understanding capitalism helps identify the exploitative nature of the employer-worker relationship and the need for workers to challenge these power dynamics.
Socialism aims to create a democratic society where wealth is distributed based on need, prioritizing human well-being and meaningful lives.
Deep dives
Importance of Marxism for Christian Faith
Marxism offers a tool to address oppression, exploitation, and social injustice from a Christian perspective. It compels Christians to prioritize the well-being of the oppressed and fight against systems of death and destruction. Marxism helps analyze the root causes of poverty, economic instability, and exploitative relationships. It reveals how capitalism thrives on diminishing workers' wages and why poverty exists by design. Understanding Marxism aids Christians in their pursuit of justice, love, and liberation for all.
Understanding Capitalism and its Processes
Capitalism is a system that revolves around the circulation of value and labor. The capitalist buys means of production, such as factories and labor, in order to produce commodities (products) for sale in the market. The goal is to maximize profits by minimizing labor costs, which leads to exploitation and economic instability. Understanding the dynamics of capitalism helps identify the exploitative nature of the employer-worker relationship and the need for workers to unite and challenge these power dynamics.
The Role of the State and the Pursuit of Socialism
A capitalist state supports and favors the interests of the capitalist class, perpetuating the inequalities and injustices of capitalism. Socialism aims to create a democracy for the majority, countering the dictatorship of the bourgeoisie. It seeks to establish a society where collective decisions are made by the people, rather than a small ruling class. Socialism envisions a world where wealth is distributed based on need, instead of profit-driven accumulation. It reorients society towards prioritizing human well-being and meaningful lives, with more time for love, education, exploration, and personal development.
The Absence of Responsibility in McDonald's: Joint Employer Law
McDonald's, as the second-largest employer in the US, faces deep systemic issues, including sexual harassment at its franchises. However, the law of joint employer allows McDonald's to avoid taking responsibility for such incidents. This law absolves the company by passing the blame onto the franchise owners, rather than owning up to the problems. Despite the fact that McDonald's workers see themselves as employees of the company, McDonald's does not recognize this relationship. Legislative changes are needed to hold McDonald's accountable.
The Inherent Bias of the Bourgeoisie-led State
The state, under capitalism, prioritizes the interests of property owners, particularly billionaires and major investors. The state apparatus works in favor of the bourgeoisie, while labor laws often disadvantage workers. The media perpetuates this bias by neglecting to report on issues like wage theft, which is the largest crime responsible for losing workers' money. Socialism and communism aim to challenge this bias, seeking to democratize workplaces and redistribute wealth to benefit the working class. Redressing historical injustices, such as implementing reparations and honoring broken treaties with indigenous nations, also comes into focus in the pursuit of a more equitable society.
Matt Bernico, co-host of the Magnificast podcast and digital strategist in the labor movement, joins me for an hour of capitalism, socialism, and communism. If you are looking to learn more about some of the basics of marxism, socialism, communism (and hear two Christians share why they think marxism can help Christians love their neighbor and enemy better), look no further! ~ Find Matt and The Magnificast on twitter!