
The Socialist Program with Brian Becker What is Socialism? Part 3: The 4 Waves of Socialism w/ Prof. Wolff
Oct 29, 2025
In this insightful conversation, Professor Richard Wolff, an economist and author known for his Marxian perspectives, delves into the historical evolution of socialism. He highlights the pivotal role of Marx as a scientific figure in social change, drawing parallels with other scientific breakthroughs. Wolff discusses socialism's ancient roots as a human impulse for a better society, and the effects of the Cold War on American socialist discourse. He argues for the necessity of blending utopian visions with practical strategies in the ongoing struggle for social justice.
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Socialism Is A Persistent Human Impulse
- Socialism is as old as human communities and arises when people imagine a better way to live together.
- Richard Wolff argues historical progress repeatedly replaces older systems with new ones driven by those who imagine improvement.
Marx Made Socialism Analytical
- Marx framed socialism as a scientific project to identify what in capitalism blocks progress and how to overcome it.
- Wolff compares Marx's method to scientific farming: study causes to improve outcomes rather than just imagine alternatives.
Change Provokes Pushback Across Eras
- Socialism splits communities between those who fear change and those who pursue it, repeating across eras and cultures.
- Wolff highlights this recurring dynamic from slavery to feudalism to capitalism as part of human progress.






