Is Venezuela a cautionary tale for Socialism?
Opponents of socialism often point to Venezuela as a cautionary tale. Once ranked as the richest South American country thanks to its oil reserves, in 1998 Venezuela elected a socialist leader, Hugo Chávez. Chávez centralized power in his increasingly authoritarian grip and spent billions on social programs from profits on oil.
What’s happened to Venezuela?
Venezuela has been devastated by socialism, even though it was once a stable democracy and the richest country in Latin America. “You guys think it can’t happen to you…I’ve heard this so many times, but always be on guard,” she added. “Never believe something can’t happen to you.
What are the pros and cons of socialism and capitalism?
Think infrastructure, energy, natural resources. Under socialism, any surplus or profit from those sectors must benefit those same citizens. Capitalism, meanwhile, calls for private owners to control the means of production and to keep any profit they make for themselves.
What are some facts about socialism?
There are some facts about socialism that are beyond dispute. At its simplest, socialism calls for a nation’s citizens to control at least some of its means of production — the major ingredients needed for a healthy economy. Think infrastructure, energy, natural resources.
Does socialism really work in Scandinavia?
Democratic socialists like Bernie and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez insist that their brand of socialism is modeled not on the failed socialisms of the past, but rather on the one place where socialism seems to work: Scandinavia. Getty Images
Why is Venezuela’s humanitarian crisis worsening?
Many in the media have blamed Venezuela’s worsening humanitarian crisis on corruption, mismanagement, falling oil prices, or U.S sanctions —anything but the rise of socialism in what was once the wealthiest country in South America.