I decided to research the theme of socialism. It is a
recurring theme throughout the book, and has even morphed into a socialism vs.
capitalism theme with the migrants and those capitalizing on their
hardships. Before diving into the theme
of socialism, I would like to explain my view on the topic. I do not share the
typical view of socialism. Whenever socialism is mentioned, there is typically
a negative connotation attached. I, however, tend to view socialism in its
ideal state – an individual working for the common good. This is not a typical
textbook definition. With this in mind, I think the Joads Family is a prototypical
example of socialism at its best. Ma, almost ad nauseam, is preaching the
importance of the “fambly” sticking together. You can also easily view the
benefits of socialism with a cursory thought of the roles of the family
members. The men are the providers and the women are the caretakers. The Joads
balance their roles and by doing so the family is able to survive, albeit a
tough survival.
Another
case in point of the theme of socialism is the government camp the Joads settle
in. While other themes such as the power of organization appear, socialism
plays a strong role in these communities. The people work together to maintain
common places such as shower and bathrooms.
The only major hang-up the community faces is that, collectively, they
are unable to provide enough food and the fear that the local people have of
them. This pushes the males in the community back into the waiting arms of
capitalism, as they seek work outside of the government camp. Perhaps with more
land for growing and livestock this community would have thrived even more.
It is my
belief that there is no full proof form of government. While we are considered
a government that practices capitalism, there are certainly numerous examples
throughout history and even today of socialism playing a role in the United
States. You can look no further than
Obama care today for a prime example. Another
example would be that of Franklin Roosevelt’s “New Deal”, which was/still is
considered to be socialism. In fact,
Obama faces many of the same criticisms that FDR faced in the 1930s. Governing people is way too complex to stick
to an existing ideology. An ideology
that takes the best of numerous ideologies is a much better comprehensive and productive
way of thinking.
John Steinbeck quote regarding socialism in America.
“Socialism never took
root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat
but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires.”
I hear you man, good points and research. Now I agree that there isn't yet a full proof form of government yet practiced, but I also am very cautious whenever the word socialism comes up. It is often mislabeled, and misused. But, the essence of socialism, in my personal opinion, is asking for trouble. Capitalism may seem scary, and cruel or whatever, but it works. There needs to be competition for quality care to be insured. Also, there are no good examples of socialism ever working. It only tends to lead to even further forms of governing such as communism. Now, I could be wrong and again these are my own personal opinions, but with the democratic and capitalistic approach we see much greater prosperity and economic strength. I value your opinion and your research, thanks Nick!
ReplyDeleteI find it very interesting that you give your insight about socialism in a positive inquiry. Socialism is not always seen as a good thing and that fact that you made a point that doesn’t necessarily speak negative of the subject is pretty impressive.
ReplyDeleteVery good research. I definitely agree with you that socialism is evident in our book. Also, there really is no perfect government. You had a lot of good points. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Kyle, people don't usually put socialism with a good view but i can see where both sides are coming from.
ReplyDeleteSocialism is definatly a topic that is still around today. Many people don't like Obamacare now just as the New Deal wasn't liked. But there is always good and bad things in every form of gevernment, and you did a nice job pointing that out.
ReplyDeleteWhen push comes to shove people will always look out for themselves rather than others. The one thing I never understood about socialism and communism is: why work your butt off for 8 years and get a PhD when you're going to get paid the same amount of money as a common laborer?
ReplyDeleteI dislike how people will try to pin human morals on an idea or concept. Socialism is not evil nor is Communism. They are both ideas on how a government should be run. I agree with you though, Nick. There is no fool proof type of government. A successful government uses concepts and ideas that work in their particular situation rather than holding tight to their beliefs of what should be...
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