Examples Are Not Definitions

By Grant Davies

We all need to know the definitions of political systems so we can spot them when we see them. For a long time I have described our own system as having evolved into fascism , mostly as people rolled their eyes.

Here is the definition I have used to dispel the false notion that what the Nazis were defines what we should think of when we see fascism. While it is an example, it is not the definition.

"Capitalism is a system where property is privately owned and privately controlled. Communism is a system where property is collectively owned and government controlled. Socialism is a system where property is government owned and government controlled. Fascism is a system where property is privately owned and government controlled."

Now I have come across this article by Dr Thomas Sowell, written in 2012, which explains it nicely.

The question is: which politicians in today's news cycle are fascists? As it turns out, most are.


Socialist or Fascist

Thomas Sowell | Jun 12, 2012

It bothers me a little when conservatives call Barack Obama a "socialist." He certainly is an enemy of the free market, and wants politicians and bureaucrats to make the fundamental decisions about the economy.

But that does not mean that he wants government ownership of the means of production, which has long been a standard definition of socialism.

What President Obama has been pushing for, and moving toward, is more insidious: government control of the economy, while leaving ownership in private hands. That way, politicians get to call the shots but, when their bright ideas lead to disaster, they can always blame those who own businesses in the private sector.

Read the rest HERE at Townhall.com






I don't see a fascist behind every tree, just the tree on the White House lawn. - Me