To the editor:
Responding to Larry Baker's request, "I would genuinely like to see someone write and explain what it is about so-called socialism that causes such an uproar from the right." I have the following to offer.
Taken from Merriam Webster Dictionary, the definition of socialism: (1) any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods;
(2) a: system of society or group living in which there is no private property; b: a system or condition of society in which the means of production are owned and controlled by the state;
(3) a stage of society in Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done.
I really could offer much more, but do I really need to? Anyone who does not see why the so called "right" has a problem with "socialism" is either uninformed or willfully ignorant.
I applaud Mr. Baker for voicing his opinion and entering the debate. Unfortunately, far too many of our citizens are like minded. They have no problem with socialism, communism, Marxism, progressives, black liberation theology, liberals, or Islamists. I would hope that Mr. Baker and those of similar thought would understand why America is different from the rest of the world.
America with all its faults has raised millions out of poverty, slavery and servitude. America has also saved Europe and the Far East from the total domination of Germany, Japan and the Communist block.
This was possible because of the freedoms we enjoy which include individual property rights, due process and our economic prosperity. All this is in danger of ending. The policies of the "left" and the failure of the "right" to adhere to the founding principles of our great democracy has brought us to this crisis.
The solution lies in those of like mind who believe in the freedoms and principles as stated in our Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights. They need to exercise their rights and vote to put the country back on track this November.
Clyde Bailey
Lewistown
