Communism and Socialism in Practice

Contrary to what many would think there has never actually been a purely Communist state since the philosophy was created. The Soviet Union, China, Vietnam, Cuba, and North Korea are the closest examples, although none of them fully achieved (or have yet achieved) a purely communist structure. Personal property, the abolition of money, and elimination of class systems are all areas where Communism wasn't achieved even in these near examples. These countries focused more on the central government's dominant role in all aspects of the economy, politics, and decision making.

Socialism similarly has never been fully adopted in any country since the philosophy was created. Some countries such as Norway, Sweden, France, and Canada have many socialist policies (such as free health care and a dominant government role in many shared services) but still have very strong capitalist structures and traditions in place.

Only time will tell if either of these economic/political philosophies will ever be realized.

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