On 1/27/04 3:08 AM, in article
, "Rob van Riel"
wrote:


I don't think either [socialism or communism] has ever been implemented
anywhere.

Communism requires an ideal humanity to work....
Attempting to implement it with less than ideal humans gives ruthless
individuals way too many opportunities to seize power and corrupt the
whole system.

Socialism and communism would require perfect god-like LEADERS. Perfect
CITIZENS do not need leaders at all.

Since we will only ever have imperfect citizens and leaders, communism is
the worst sort of philosophy. Democracy may not be the ideal form of
government, but it is better than any other mankind has devised.

"Democracy and socialism have nothing in common but one word:
equality. But notice the difference: while democracy seeks
equality in liberty, socialism seeks equality in restraint
and servitude."- Alexis de Tocqueville

"Democracy is a form of government that substitutes election
by the incompetent many for appointment by the corrupt few."
- George Bernard Shaw

"Those who cast the votes decide nothing.
Those who count the votes decide everything."
- Josef Stalin


The refinement of democracy that is our Republic gives to us imperfect
humans our very best chance at freedom. Socialism and communism never really
speak in terms of freedom, but only in terms of equality. Enforced equality
is slavery and you may have all of that you like.



-------
Jack
-------