I majored in Political Science back in 2006, and back then Socialism was considered at best, a theory that was admirable, but unrealistic. In fact when we were tasked with writing a thesis on the best form of government, only one student picked socialism. And he was the kid on the fringe. Even a full authority monarchy drew more interest. In fact, my professors hardly even mentioned it as a form of government that might be feasible. It was widely considered that Democracy, although flawed was still the best form of government. Capitalism, while not completely fair, at least gave the poor man the chance of bettering himself, based on his hard work and merit. Examples of the Greeks and Romans and how their governments birthed our own were the central part of our studies. It was understood that at least historically, a heavily Socialist government would eventually give way to Communism. And nobody wanted that.
Fast Forward to 2010, when I started Grad School, I initially started out as a International Studies major. By this time Socialism had started its creep into the schools in a major way. But it was still considered more of a theory then an actual way to run the government. And while people may have agreed with some social programs, like SS and unemployment, very few supported a fully socialist government. Even my most liberal, progressive professor stated that while he was a big advocate of Socialism, he believed it to be flawed because people were inherently greedy, and would serve themselves over the greater good. It was more of a goal to strive for, rather then a marker to achieve.
Flash to 2016
What on earth happened?!
During the last election cycle it was like people had completely gone insane(for many reasons) How an old man, who was a proud Socialist, with hardly any work experience could get so far in the polls was beyond me. (Granted, I would have taken him over his Democratic challenger but that's not what this blog is about) Even among generally Conservative people, he was a hit. But even more terrifying was how suddenly, people around me who did not understand how our government works, who didn't vote, and who were previously too cool to care about politics, came out in overwhelming support of Socialism in general. Countries like Sweden were praised, while countries like Venezuela or the old Soviet Union were ignored "Oh that's not true Socialism" "Oh that's a third world country, not here." And it was downright foaming at the mouth, screaming till your blue, defense positions about something they knew nothing about 6 months prior.
It was as if the system that they had been living under their whole lives, the system they benefited from, was suddenly a dirty word. No doubt Capitalism, and Democracy are words that have been hijacked to fit the fleecing of middle class America. And today our system is a shell of what it should be. But our freedoms have given millions of people opportunities they wouldn't have anywhere else. My grandparents on both sides are examples of this. Both sides left for America to live a better life and never looked back. And do well they did. Since when had it become hip to completely give your freedoms over to an entity like Big Brother? We all heard the horror stories of what life was like under the Iron Curtain. Is that not being taught in schools anymore?
What concerns me is that when you try to explain this, you get shut down pretty heavily. Not to mention, if you were to suggest that even if we wanted more socialist programs we cant possibly afford them, you'll most likely get shouted down. Most disturbing is that complete ignorance of what Communism is and just how terrible of a system it is. This along with a rabid-like denial of anything contrary to the popular narrative, are now forming the opinions of people 35 or younger. There is no more civil discussion, and it's best to avoid all Facebook debates. Forget trying to have discussions like Jefferson and Adams had. We would get nowhere close. Not because the argument cant be won by facts. But that it cannot be won at all. Even when you show current examples of governments today,there is always a deflection. Of course the media is no help. In my opinion, they should be covering what is happening in Venezuela 24/7. Because it could very well be looking into our future. I'm sure this comes as no surprise to anyone reading this. Its why so many people joined this platform. But of late I am truly concerned with the sheer hostility that comes with this type of crowd. It is the type of hostility that turns people into mobs, mobs into actions, and actions into changes that are sure to cause trouble. In any event, I believe one must keep trying, and being a positive influence where one can. Thoughts?
BTW My cousin has just graduated with her own degree in international studies....I hazard a guess it looks nothing like mine.