Communism is an ideology and socioeconomic system characterized by the absence of social classes, private ownership of the means of production, and the establishment of a stateless, classless society. It advocates for the collective ownership and control of resources, where wealth and properties are distributed according to individual needs. Under communism, the primary goal is to eliminate inequality, exploitation, and the oppression resulting from societal divisions.
Generally associated with Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, communism aims to create a society based on cooperation, equality, and common ownership. The means of production, including factories, land, and natural resources, are owned and controlled collectively by the people or the state on behalf of the people. The central principle is "from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs," emphasizing equal distribution and the fulfillment of everyone's basic necessities.
Communism also promotes the abolition of the wage system, as all individuals contribute to society based on their abilities and receive goods and services according to their requirements. The ultimate goal is the withering away of the state, as it is viewed as an entity upholding class divisions, and its functions will be gradually replaced by direct popular control.
While communism is often associated with authoritarian regimes in history, it is important to distinguish between the ideals of communism and specific political implementations thereof. Variations and interpretations of communism differ, and historical examples can reflect departures from the original vision. Nonetheless, communism remains a topic of academic analysis, political debate, and historical study.
