The Socialist Dream Crumbles in Venezuela

[JDHURF]

[Spider]

[JDHURF]

Unfortunately for you, you made the argument that socialism will never work because people suck. Or was I misreading your "argument"?

[Spider]

Actually, I was trying to point out that no system will work sustainably in the face of human corruption. Words on paper sound real great....but then contact with reality gums it up eventually. Capitalist systems have lasted longer, and had more success, than the socialist ones so far attempted (and PLEASE don't give me that No True Scotsman I've been waiting for all afternoon) but they are going to come crashing down eventually, because capitalism is also fatally flawed.

Ultimately, I tend to think that systems designed to function in concert with human suck are going to work somewhat better than systems designed to function against the current of human suck.

You will find few absolutes in my positions, because of the very same range of the human condition you pointed out earlier.

Dharma's idea doesn't work because it would require a basis of near total human homogeneity of thought and motivation to get started. Humanity would have to simultaneously give up its innate tendency towards hierarchy and self interest. Those little instincts that drive to us gain and display status through exhibits of skill or accomplishment, like apes displaying and thrashing around a tree branch, are buried deeply in the animal parts of our minds.

[The Dharma Bum]

How is it then that a system of institutionalized corruption is preferable to one that attempts to limit the availability of political tools that are useful for corrupt purposes?

The thing you don't understand is that capitalism is the system based on idealism, not socialism, which is an attempt at rational,fair, and materialistic social policy.

[Spider]

[The Comrade]

ah yes, capitalism developed because "that's how shit really is"

why do you guys bother arguing with such a master of sociology, politics, philosophy, psychology, and history?

[JDHURF]

My favorite part is that his political leaning states socialist when clearly it should state another suck capitalist.

[The Comrade]

oh ho ho! but he isn't a capitalist! as all pure ideologies are broken!!!!

Except for capitalism! because that's just how it is!!!!

no contradiction there

[Medius]