Why didnt the Communism of the Soviet Union live up to the dreams of early communism?

Answer 1

Because pure communism in the Marxist ideal has no political theory. When the Revolution comes, it is supposed to sweep into the world and end governments as global communities are established. Marx used to call his communism as "scientific" because he believed this was inevitable, but we all know this is only an ideal.

The Bolsheviks believed that would happen 3-4 years after 1917, but when the world didn't revolt, they were forced to build a permanent State, which by definition is not part of the communist program.

Lenin tried his best to find a way to make it work without taking many drastic measures (already too many people had been killed in the civil war), but he died rather unexpectedly, and this gave Stalin the opportunity to create a dictator state where he was the absolute ruler.

As someone said, read the "Animal Farm" or "1984" to get an idea of what happened after Stalin took over.

Answer 2

Technically, the Soviet Union was not in the 'ideal' position to become Communist. There was not enough money in the country for communism to work, there was too much of a division between the social classes, and the revolution was fueled by leadership ie. Lenin and Trotsky, rather than being instigated by the masses.

Answer 3

Because no matter what political pot you boil, the scum always rises to the top.

There are greedy, scheming, evil people in this world with absolutely no empathy for the pain and suffering of others.

Lacking any level of ethical or moral conviction that might otherwise stand in the way of their actions they are free to do whatever they like to reach whatever self serving goals they want to achieve.

United in their greed and lack of compassion they inevitably have an edge over the rest of the population who might temper their own excesses with feelings of guilt.

Whenever there is a major political upheaval, these vile people may be displaced for a brief time but it is never long before they learn the ropes of the new system and return to consolidate power.

There is and always has been only ONE political system in this world - the Haves vs the Have Nots.

If you are not one of the Haves then don't talk to them, don't listen to them, don't buy their spin, don't play their game. DO NOT PARTICIPATE - the only way to beat them is to ignore them.

Answer 4

In theory, communism's biggest problem is that it allows for a dictator.
2nd, it motivates people to only accomplish the bare minimum, unlike a capitalism that motivates people to work hard and achieve for social and matierial rewards; like bigger houses, nice cars, blow, etc. Like the broad above mentions
3rd, russian are lazy and slow minded anyways. (just kidding)

Answer 5

Because communism allows for corruption to happen quickly and a person can quickly gain domination over others. look at Stalin.

Answer 6

Communism is an ideal. Humans allow their egos, desires for power and their greed overule the ideal and it becomes a failure.

Answer 7

Basically when everyone gets equal rewards no matter how hard he works, many will choose not to work at all.

Answer 8

read the book "Animal Farm"
and you will get a great hint