Origin Story

Socialism: The Finale – What’s Left?

30 snips
Dec 20, 2025
The discussion explores socialism's journey since 1991, highlighting China’s embrace of market socialism and the rise and fall of Latin America’s Pink Wave. They delve into socialism's historical roots, examining key figures and movements, and ponder whether socialism can be strictly defined. Obstacles like internal factionalism and leadership challenges are analyzed, alongside the interplay of socialism and communism. The hosts reflect on socialism's achievements and its vision for the future amidst capitalism's recurring crises.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Authoritarian States Embrace Market Reforms

  • China, Vietnam, Laos and Cuba have adopted market elements while keeping one-party rule and ideological cover.
  • Ian Dunt warns growth legitimizes authoritarian adaptation and slowing growth risks crisis for China.
INSIGHT

The West's Left Became Largely Reactive

  • Post-1991 Western left largely lost an economic alternative and became mainly 'anti' movements.
  • That shift produced grassroots energy but no coherent agenda to replace capitalism.
INSIGHT

Socialism Is A Plural Tradition

  • Many core socialist strands already existed by 1850, so later variations were mostly tactical or methodological.
  • Defining socialism narrowly (social ownership of means) excludes broad traditions like social democracy.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app