Types of Economic System

 Common types of Economic System

 

CAPITALISM

 

            Is an economic system where the control of the enterprise is in the hands of individuals and the private sectors. It is where the ownership and use of the means of production as well as the production and distribution of goods and services are determined by the individual producers in the private sector.

 

Characteristics

 

1.    Property ownership – it is the right to acquire, use and dispose of anything of value. The exercise of such right is within the implementing laws of the government.

2.    Freedom of enterprise – freedom to enter and leave any business venture. This freedom is governed by the laws pertaining to business like factory laws, food and drug laws, and other public service laws regulating these rights.

3.    Competition – since anybody can enter into business, more people will be producing the same product of different brands. Due to the number of producers in an industry, competition exists.

4.    Profit motive – is the core of capitalism in the sense that it is the main reason for the use of properties in entering an industry where the producers compete for profit.

 

 

Evolution of Capitalism

 

Capitalism was already in existence in the ancient civilization of Egypt, Babylonia, Carthage, Greece, and Rome. This became popular in 1800 when Laissez-Faire emerged after Feudalism and Mercantilism. It further developed with the start of the industrial revolution especially during the period  1776 -1840, since the procedures of the old civilizations were changed.

 

In the 18th century, merchants had large amounts of money/capital and they were ready to invest in new products. The steam engine paved the way for such investments. Factories were set up in England and in other parts of Europe and the United States. There was a change in the procedures brought about by the new machinery. The industrial revolution was then in progress.

 

In capitalism, the individuals are free to make their choice, individuals are to generate income, how to spend their income and choose the products and services that they want the companies are also free to determine what product /services to produce or render, how to allocate the resources, how to produce and how much to distribute. They are also governed by the law of supply and demand as well as the price system.

Capitalism is also known as free enterprise since private individuals are free to join economic organizations, though there are other names given to capitalism: free-market system, entrepreneurial system, and laissez-faire.

 

Disadvantage of Capitalism

 

Society

 

1.    Exploitation – the workers are exploited when they receive low pay for the services rendered. The capitalist derived more profits than the workers who produce these products did.

2.    The Inequalities – the workers are not treated fairly since low wages are paid and fewer benefits are enjoyed by them.

 

Economy

 

1.    Surplus production – due to the desire for profit, the tendency is to create scarcity of resources since more resources are utilized for the production of more products. This can lead to waste since there are already several firms producing the same product of different brands.

2.    Underemployment – this is the result of oversupply of manpower on the same line of profession or trade.

3.    Stiff Competition – it may exist among companies producing the same product of different brands where one company will try to destroy the other company just to sin the support of the consumers.

4.    Concentration of the economic resources in the hands of the few – this may either result in a monopoly or the absence of competition or oligopoly or competing among the few. This may result in the desperation of the management of the owners or some limitations to the power of the owners.

 

Government

 

·         This may result in resolving the priorities in terms of the needs of the private sectors by the government

 

Countries where Capitalism is prevalent

 

·         United States

It is a democratic country that practices free enterprise where the people have the right to expand their properties by entering into business.

 

 

 

·         Philippines

There is the freedom of an individual to enter any business venture where one can maximize profit. This may involve producing and selling local or imported products.

           

·         Japan

Japan is investing its money in different countries of the world in order to further gain control of economic activities globally. Other countries are Canada and West Germany.

 

 

SOCIALISM

 

            Socialism is the system of public ownership and control of the major means of production while limited ownership and control of small-scale industries are left to private individuals but still under the control of the government.

            An economic system where there is public ownership of the means of production and distribution is socially and democratically managed for the common good.

 

 

 

History

 

            Socialism began in 1830 in France and Great Britain. Its idea was propagated by Robert Owen. The most popular of socialist was Karl Marx, whose works/writings became the basis of other socialist countries. In the 19th century, under the leadership of Nikolai Lenin, socialism gained ground in the Soviet Union. Communism became distinct from socialism and after the Second World War, Marxism became the socialist ideology.

 

 

 

 

            The term socialism was first used in the 1830s. at the time, the industrial revolution was in progress in Europe land the U.S. two classes emerged: the capitalist who owned the industries and the laborers.

           

The new industrial system of the capitalist faced opposition from various radicals.

            One of these is the socialists, whose idea of socialism is geared towards the establishment of a Utopian society that is based in cooperation and not a competition and this society will work for the fulfillment of the needs of the people.

 

Characteristics

 

·         Controlled private property

·         Equal distribution of wealth

·         Equal opportunity and benefits for all members

·         Controlled production and distribution of the needs of the people

·         Provision of  the opportunities for the satisfaction of the needs and wants of the people

·         The major means of production are owned and controlled by the government while small scale industries are left to the private sectors but still under the control of the government

·         Economic decisions are planned by the central planning body

·         It is the road towards the achievement of “full communism”

 

Advantage of Socialism

 

            It will provide for social, intellectual, and economic reforms that will lead to modernization and industrialization development.

 

Disadvantage of Socialism

 

            Exploitation by socialism and poverty cannot be overcome. But rather it will result in forced industrialization. Individual ideology is used to cover up the political motive, exploitation, and economic knowledge.

            The income that the people receive is not commensurate with the effort exerted. It is because the people receive equal of the same income.

 

Countries where Socialism was applied

 

Czechoslovakia                   Africa

France                                   France.,

            Yugoslavia                            Germany

            North Korea                          England

            Jamaica                    

            Tunisia

 

COMMUNISM

 

            This is an economic system that allows the complete ownership, management, and operation of all the means of production and distribution of goods and services by the government. They implement the doctrines of communism of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. It is a social system where the properties are owned by the states and the wealth is distributed to the people according to their needs. The communist parties among industrialized societies will surely embrace “full communism” though it will take several years.

 

History

 

            The term communism is from the Latin word communis means “common”. Communism believes that the state is more important than its citizens. This idea came from Plato, a Greek philosopher, who wrote the classical political treaties, The Republic. Other writings supporting such an idea are Utopia by Thomas More in 1516, and the Communist Manifesto written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, in 1848. These writings influence the rise of communist parties in several countries.

            The first communist state was Russia which became one after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 under the leadership of Nikolai Lenin. China, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, and Cuba also became communists after World War 2.

            One reason for this is the weakness of their government especially after the Second World War another is the strength of the USSR which enabled her to conquer states mostly Eastern Europe. This contributed to the so-called “cold war” the end of which was witnessed in the early ’90s with the breakdown of the Berlin Wall.

 

            While the original idea of communism was Plato’s because of his belief in a society of common ownership, it is actually Karl Marx who can be called the father of communism. It was Marx who set down this system of belief as a response to the poor condition of the working class. Marx thought that the prevalence of communism would start in capitalist countries. Historical development proved him wrong. In 1917, Nikolai Lenin and Leon Trotsky established this rule in Russia than an agricultural-based state that was lagging behind in Europe’s Progress.

 

            It was here that for the first time, the theories of communism were applied. And it was from here that communism will spread its influence in other parts of the globe.

 

Characteristics

 

o   There is a single party that governs the state

o   All property is owned by the state

o   The state controls and supervises all productive activities

o   Everyone is considered equal, no one enjoys privileges based on the status in society

o   There is equal distribution of goods and services

o   The principle “from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs” is applied

o   There is no private ownership of property

o   The economy is centrally planned

o   There is the use of force

 

 

 

Strengths of Communism

 

o   Individual work for the benefit of the state

o   The government runs the economy of the state

o   Government choose a person’s work according to capacity

o   Absence of competition

o   Work is according to ability, compensation is according to needs

o   Government dictates prices of goods and services

o   Reward system for productive workers

o   All resources/factors of production are nationalized

o   A system of punishment for various offenses

o   Absence of social classes

 

Negative Practices of Communism

 

o   The use of violence, war, chaotic revolution, or insurrection as means to obtain power

o   Dictatorship does not allow public criticism

o   Use of totalitarian  form government where there is absolute control

o   Absence of oppositionist candidates where the voters have actually no choice during election

o   The selected few government officials make decisions for the people

o   The important position in education, government, and military are under the control of the communist party

o   Absence of free enterprise

o   Public ownership of land, banks, natural resources, trade and industries, transportation, and communication.

o   The government decides on economic problems that must coincide with the policies of the communist party

o   The people who give public criticism to the policies of the communist party are prosecuted

o   The people are not allowed to establish organizations or newspapers that will criticize the party

o   The practice of religion was discouraged since they treated religion as a hostile force. Is because the presence of religion may hinder them to use violence in stopping the unjust practice

 

Countries where Communism is applied

 

            Soviet Union

 

                        All the economic organizations and processes are under the laws of the government and the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. The industries are managed by the ministries of the government. It is under the administration of the government that the republics, branches, and operations of all industries, agriculture, public utilities, and trade are controlled

 

            Red China

 

                        Communist China under Mao Tse Tung where the government controls all the industries, agriculture trade. There is equal distribution of wealth in a commune though quota was imposed on the workers.

 

            Yugoslavia

 

                        An economic system that is in line with communism though it is a democratic centralized communist system where the workers can partake in the operation of a socialized industry and the farmers can own and cultivate their lands through cooperative agriculture.

 

                        Other countries that practice communism:

 

1.    Poland

2.    Czechoslovakia

3.    Hungary

4.    Vietnam

5.    Bulgaria

 

OTHER ECONOMIC SYSTEM

 

FEUDALISM

 

            Feudalism is a system of relations among the members of the upper class of Medieval Europe whereby a person is given a piece of land in exchange for military and political services rendered.

            In a broader sense, feudalism denotes “feudal society” which is a form of civilization and a type of society with certain characteristics besides the mere presence of the Lords, vassals, and fiefs. The people of the era performed civil or military service in exchange for land to be tilled. “Vassals” belongs to the warriors class of the period who is the recipient of the land known as a fief of feudum, while the feudal Lord is the head of the manor. “Manors” are the agricultural states the were formed after the division of the empire due to its fall.

            Thus, feudalism was derived from the word feudum denotes that it’s the system of landlordism. It was originally done simply to establish a mutually protective relationship. The period was characterized by a chaotic social condition, thus, there was a need for the establishment of strong military organizations through the use of the land or fief. Therefore, it is more of a military or political organization than an economic system

            The Lord and the vassals were interlocked in the web of mutual rights and obligations in a well-protected castle. It undertook an initiative of importance to the feudal community as a whole.

 

History

 

            Feudalism may have the beginning in the chaotic times that characterized the Dark Age when Barbarians were in control after Alaric. The leader of the Visigoths captured Rome and much later on when the Roman Empire finally fell in 476 B.C.

            The Dark Ages was followed by the Medieval Period or the Middle Ages where manors came into being.

            Feudalism reached its height in the middle of the 11th century up to the 13th century.

 

Vassals Obligations to the Feudal Lord

 

1.    he must render military service at the time when it is needed

2.    he is responsible for planning all the activities of the manor

3.    Financial obligation at the time when it is needed by the Lord like a marriage of the lord’s daughter, part of the ransom’s money when the lord was kidnapped, or anytime the manor needs some financial contributions.

 

Causes of the decline of Feudalism

 

o   land became so significant and a widespread of money in towns and cities

o   spread of capitalism and gunpowder

 

Feudalism was eradicated in England in 1622 but it has a tremendous influence on the Revolution of 1789 that put an end to the practice of feudalism in Europe although Germany had a hard time eradicating feudalistic practices.

 

Countries under Feudalism

 

The Kingdom of Franks was the first site of the feudalistic system. Such kingdom was between two rivers, namely Rhine and Loire Rivers. The Carolingian Empire, which was composed of the following: southern France, Catalonia, Conburdy, Saxony, and Bavaria, was under the feudal system too. It also reached Great Britain, Southern Italy, Jerusalem, and the Latin Empire of Constantinople.

            The Slavic and Scandinavian states were also influenced by the feudal system of Germany.

 

CACIQUE

 

Is the system of landlordism in the Philippines during the colonial period of the Spaniards?  The rich landlords were called the caciques while the farmer who used the lands were called the tenants or Kasama.

It is a political, social, and economic system where the local administration was managed by the cacique.  It is a type of bossism, semi feudalistic and property ownership.

 

History

 

It is the counterpart of the feudalism in the Philippines reckoned by the Filipinos who had a chance to occupy a position during the Spanish period.  The caciques were the influential citizens occupying higher positions in the society during the colonial period.  It is described the rural way of life during the Spanish times. Such practice was already widespread even before the coming of the Spaniards.  This was the implementation of taxation.

 

The caciques were similar to the feudal barons of medieval Europe during the rise of the feudalism.  He is powerful, wealthy and occupies a high status in the society.  He has control over other citizens of his town.  As a patriarch he is responsible for the economic, social and spiritual well- being of the people, as a “father” to everyone, he is being respected and served by the people. They were the tax collectors, in charge with the safety and justice of people within his jurisdiction.  He served as a mediator between the religious groups and the government officials of Spain during the period.

 

SYSTEM OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS

 

·         Inquilino system-  it is also known as the “leasing system” since rents are paid to the cacique for the use of the land. The cacique is an absentee landlord where he need not have

direct supervision over the piece of land being loaned since his interest lies on the rents which are paid in cash or crop equivalent (kind).

 

·         Kasama system-  it is the system of partnership where the tenant and the cacique contributed to the cultivation of the land then products will be divided equally.

 

If the labor plus all the materials and expenses are shouldered by the tenant while the cacique contributed only his land 2/3 of the harvest will go to the tenants while the remaining 1/3 will be received by the cacique.

 

On the other hand, if 50% of the expenses and materials plus the labor are shared by the tenant or Kasama, while another 50% of the expenses and materials will be shouldered by the cacique plus island, then the harvest will be divided equally.

 

·         Tenant-servant System -  The tenant enjoyed free board and lodging in the sense that he was given a small house and lot near the vast land known as hacienda that he will cultivate. As a servant, his duty is to cultivate the land. In return, he will receive a fixed share from the harvest whether he has a good or low harvest.

 

·         Clearing system – This system applies to “virgin lands” that require some clearing. During the process of clearing, no rents are paid to the cacique. But after the clearing, less than 50% of the harvest goes to the cacique and as the  harvest improved, 50% or more is imposed.

 

EVILS OF CACIQUISM

 

  • Usury System – It is the practice of lending money that prescribed a very high rate of interest like the following:

 

a.    Takipan – It prescribed 100% rate of interest per harvest.

b.    Talindua – It prescribed 50% rate of interest per harvest.

c.    Terciahan – It prescribed 33-1/3% interest per harvest.

 

  • Paternalism -  It refers to the complete dependence on the lord where he was seen as a great provider of everything. Such practice, resulted in laziness among the Filipinos who can no longer decide on their own and cannot stand on their own feet.

 

  • Asking for Free services – Because of the utang na loob or debt of gratitude, the money borrowed is not only paid in cash but even in services.

 

  • Curtailment of the Right of Suffrage – It is not only the land and its harvest that is being controlled by the cacique but even his mind specifically his choice of candidates. The cacique will dictate to his tenants whom to vote for and failure to follow will mean that their lives will be threatened.

 

 

DECLINE OF CACIQUISM

 

            Caciquism lasted in the Philippines for several years during the Spanish Period since the tenants were very obedient to their cacique. But with the coming of the Americans who introduced education, caciquism slowly declined. This is because education was the strongest force to fight caciquism. It was due to education where people became aware of the quality of all men regardless of his race, religion or color. The inferior feeling of being brown or black and the wrong notion about Catholicism were totally eradicated due to education. Thus, people started to fight for their rights.

 

 

 

 

MERCANTILISM

 

            Mercantilism is a political theory that was widely accepted in Europe in the 16th to 18th centuries. If the state is to gain wealth, power, and prestige, the government-controlled the economy.

            This is based on the mercantilist doctrine which states that the wealth of a nation is measured by the amount of gold and silver it has accumulated through the export of its products as well as the conquest of small states.

            This was aptly called nationalism through commerce.

 

History and Nations who practice Mercantilism

 

            Mercantilism was widespread in Europe from the16th to 18th centuries. It was used in Great Britain, France, and the Netherlands in the States that they conquer such as New England, the Caribbean countries, and the West Indies. This was practiced too, by Portugal and Spain in their conquest of the Philippines. This system prevailed in America when it came under the control of Great Britain, France, Spain, and Portugal. Up to this time, countries in the so-called New World show manifestations of their colonial past under these countries, such as language, laws, religion, and beliefs.

            Today, however, the system of mercantilism no longer exists

 

Economic activities emphasized under Mercantilism

 

·         Precious metals like gold and silver were used as the measure of the wealth of nations.

·         If a country has no mines or access to them, then gold and silver should be obtained by means of trade.

·         Favorable Balance of Trade must be maintained where exports are greater than its imports.

 

·         Each country wishes to have a large population for it will provide for a supply of labor, big market, and source of soldiers.

·         Consumption of imported luxury goods is discouraged for it will bring out the country’s precious metals.

·         Manufacturing is forbidden in the colonies since they will be the market of their mother country.

·         Thrift, saving, and patrimony were regarded as virtues.

 

When mercantilism was eradicated, it gave way to a new economic

the system is known as capitalism.

 

FASCISM

 

            A rightist political movement that governed Italy as a dictatorship from 1922-1943. Fascism was derived from the Latin word fasces, or bundle of rods to symbolize authority and power. It is an economic system where the dictator controls all the industries.

            The founder of the fascist movement was Benito Mussolini and his followers in Milan, Italy in March 1919. He was an Italian dictator from 1922-1943. It emerged in time and was proclaimed as the enemy of Italian communism. Fascism promised reforms through violence.

            In Germany, the Fascist Party of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party of the Nazi Party was headed by Adolf Hitler. Hitler disregarded the use of the constitution in Germany and transformed the country into a fascist state. He was remembered for murdering millions of Jews to prove the superiority of the German race.

 

Characteristics

 

·         The rule of totalitarianism or dictatorship.

·         Complete control and management by the government of all the political, economic, social, cultural, and religious affairs of the nation.

·         Some industries were allowed to be privatized provided they are still under the control of the government.

·         Patriotism and war-like policies were imposed

·         All industries are strictly managed by the government in order to make sure that the needs of the country are met.

·         Importation of products from other countries are prohibited

·         Strike and organizing trade unions are not allowed by the government

·         The corporation established by the government are run by government workers and employees.

·         Government fixed the wages, working hours,s and the production goals of the corporation.

·         The government controls the newspaper, radio, and other means of communication.

·         Any violation of the rules of the government may result in punishment, imprisonment, or death of the violator.

·         The young are encouraged by the government to join the organizations that are promoting the teaching of fascism

·         The national planning board plans the economy.

 

Advantage of Fascism

 

a.    Emphasis is centered on the economy.

b.    Workers enjoy equal wages and benefits.

c.    Discipline is inculcated among the people starting from their childhood days.

 

d.    Production is focused on the needs of the country

e.    The country does not depend upon the importation of goods from other countries

f.     Production is not delayed by strikes

g.    Limited private ownership is allowed

 

Disadvantage

 

a.    The rights and freedom of the people are limited by the government

b.    Violent and war-like policies are implemented by the government

c.    Presence of only one political party

d.    Absence of the freedom of speech and press

e.    ViolenCommon types of Economic System

 

CAPITALISM

 

            Is an economic system where the control of the enterprise is in the hands of individuals and the private sectors. It is where the ownership and use of the means of production as well as the production and distribution of goods and services are determined by the individual producers in the private sector.

 

Characteristics

 

1.    Property ownership – it is the right to acquire, use and dispose of anything of value. The exercise of such right is within the implementing laws of the government.

2.    Freedom of enterprise – freedom to enter and leave any business venture. This freedom is governed by the laws pertaining to business like factory laws, food and drug laws, and other public service laws regulating these rights.

3.    Competition – since anybody can enter into business, more people will be producing the same product of different brands. Due to the number of producers in an industry, competition exists.

4.    Profit motive – is the core of capitalism in the sense that it is the main reason for the use of properties in entering an industry where the producers compete for profit.

 

 

 

 

 

Evolution of Capitalism

 

Capitalism was already in existence in the ancient civilization of Egypt, Babylonia, Carthage, Greece and Rome. This became popular in 1800 when Laissez-Faire emerged after Feudalism and Mercantilism. It further developed with the start of the industrial revolution especially during the period  1776 -1840, since the procedures of the old civilizations were changed.

 

In the 18th century, merchants had a large amount of money/capital and they were ready to invest in new products. The steam engine paved the way for such investments. Factories were set up in England and in other parts of Europe and the United States. There was a change in the procedures brought about by the new machinery. The industrial revolution was then in progress.

 

In capitalism, the individuals are free to make their choice, individuals are to generate income, how to spend their income and choose the products and services that they want the companies are also free to determine what product /services to produce or render, how to allocate the resources, how to produce and how much to distribute. They are also governed by the law of supply and demand as well as the price system.

Capitalism is also known as free enterprise since private individuals are free to join economic organizations, though there are other names given to capitalism: free-market system, entrepreneurial system, and laissez-faire.

 

Disadvantage of Capitalism

 

Society

 

1.    Exploitation – the workers are exploited when they receive low pay for the services rendered. The capitalist derived more profits than the workers who produce these products did.

2.    The Inequalities – the workers are not treated fairly since low wages are paid and fewer benefits are enjoyed by them.

 

Economy

 

1.    Surplus production – due to the desire for profit, the tendency is to create scarcity of resources since more resources are utilized for the production of more products. This can lead to waste, since there are already several firms producing the same product of different brands.

2.    Underemployment – this is the result of oversupply of manpower on the same line of profession or trade.

3.    Stiff Competition – it may exist among companies producing the same product of different brands where one company will try to destroy the other company just to sin the support of the consumers.

4.    Concentration of the economic resources in the hands of the few – this may either result in a monopoly or the absence of competition or oligopoly or competing among the few. This may result in the desperation of the management of the owners or some limitations to the power of the owners.

 

Government

 

·         This may result in resolving the priorities in terms of the needs of the private sectors by the government

 

Countries where Capitalism is prevalent

 

·         United States

It is a democratic country that practices free enterprise where the people have the right to expand their properties by entering into business.

 

 

 

·         Philippines

There is the freedom of an individual to enter any business venture where one can maximize profit. This may involve producing and selling of local or imported products.

           

·         Japan

Japan is investing its money in different countries of the world in order to further gain control of economic activities globally. Other countries are Canada and West Germany.

 

 

SOCIALISM

 

            Socialism is the system of public ownership and control of the major means of production while limited ownership and control of small-scale industries are left to private individuals but still under the control of the government.

            An economic system where there is public ownership of the means of production and distribution are socially and democratically managed for the common good.

 

 

 

History

 

            Socialism began in 1830 in France and Great Britain. Its idea was propagated by Robert Owen. The most popular of socialist was Karl Marx, whose works/writings became the basis of other socialist countries. In the 19th century, under the leadership of Nikolai Lenin, socialism gained ground in the Soviet Union. Communism became distinct from socialism and after the Second World War, Marxism became the socialist ideology.

 

 

 

 

            The term socialism was first used in the 1830s. at the time, the industrial revolution was in progress in Europe land the U.S. two classes emerged: the capitalist who owned the industries and the laborers.

           

The new industrial system of the capitalist faced opposition from various radicals.

            One of these is the socialists, whose idea of socialism is geared towards the establishment of a Utopian society that is based in cooperation and not a competition and this society will work for the fulfillment of the needs of the people.

 

Characteristics

 

·         Controlled private property

·         Equal distribution of wealth

·         Equal opportunity and benefits for all members

·         Controlled production and distribution of the needs of the people

·         Provision of  the opportunities for the satisfaction of the needs and wants of the people

·         The major means of production are owned and controlled by the government while small scale industries are left to the private sectors but still under the control of the government

·         Economic decisions are planned by the central planning body

·         It is the road towards the achievement of “full communism”

 

Advantage of Socialism

 

            It will provide for social, intellectual, and economic reforms that will lead to modernization and industrialization development.

 

Disadvantage of Socialism

 

            Exploitation by socialism and poverty cannot be overcome. But rather it will result to forced industrialization. Individual ideology is used to cover up the political motive, exploitation, and economic knowledge.

            The income that the people receive is not commensurate with the effort exerted. It is because the people receive equal of the same income.

 

Countries where Socialism was applied

 

Czechoslovakia                   Africa

France                                   France.,

            Yugoslavia                            Germany

            North Korea                          England

            Jamaica                    

            Tunisia

 

COMMUNISM

 

            This is an economic system that allows the complete ownership, management, and operation of all the means of production and distribution of goods and services by the government. They implement the doctrines of communism of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. It is a social system where the properties are owned by the states and the wealth is distributed to the people according to their needs. The communist parties among industrialized societies will surely embrace “full communism” though it will take several years.

 

History

 

            The term communism is from the Latin word communis means “common”. Communism believes that the state is more important than its citizens. This idea came from Plato, a Greek philosopher, who wrote the classical political treaties, The Republic. Other writings supporting such an idea are Utopia by Thomas More in 1516, and the Communist Manifesto written by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, in 1848. These writings influence the rise of communist parties in several countries.

            The first communist state was Russia which became one after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 under the leadership of Nikolai Lenin. China, East Germany, Czechoslovakia, and Cuba also became communists after World War 2.

            One reason for this is the weakness of their government especially after the Second World War another is the strength of the USSR which enabled her to conquer states mostly Eastern Europe. This contributed to the so-called “cold war” the end of which was witnessed in the early ’90s with the breakdown of the Berlin Wall.

 

            While the original idea of communism was Plato’s because of his belief in a society of common ownership, it is actually Karl Marx who can be called the father of communism. It was Marx who set down this system of belief as a response to the poor condition of the working class. Marx thought that the prevalence of communism would start in capitalist countries. Historical development proved him wrong. In 1917, Nikolai Lenin and Leon Trotsky established this rule in Russia than an agricultural-based state that was lagging behind in Europe’s Progress.

 

            It was here that for the first time, the theories of communism were applied. And it was from here that communism will spread its influence in other parts of the globe.

 

Characteristics

 

o   There is a single party that governs the state

o   All property is owned by the state

o   The state controls and supervises all productive activities

o   Everyone is considered equal, no one enjoys privileges based on the status in society

o   There is equal distribution of goods and services

o   The principle “from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs” is applied

o   There is no private ownership of property

o   The economy is centrally planned

o   There is the use of force

 

 

 

Strengths of Communism

 

o   Individual work for the benefit of the state

o   The government runs the economy of the state

o   Government choose a person’s work according to capacity

o   Absence of competition

o   Work is according to ability, compensation is according to needs

o   Government dictates prices of goods and services

o   Reward system for productive workers

o   All resources/factors of production are nationalized

o   A system of punishment for various offenses

o   Absence of social classes

 

Negative Practices of Communism

 

o   The use of violence, war, chaotic revolution, or insurrection as means to obtain power

o   Dictatorship do not allow public criticism

o   Use of totalitarian  form government where there is absolute control

o   Absence of oppositionist candidates where the voters have actually no choice during election

o   The selected few government officials make decisions for the people

o   The important position in education, government, and military are under the control of the communist party

o   Absence of free enterprise

o   Public ownership of land, banks, natural resources, trade and industries, transportation, and communication.

o   The government decides on economic problems that must coincide with the policies of the communist party

o   The people who give public criticism to the policies of the communist party are prosecuted

o   The people are not allowed to establish organizations or newspapers that will criticize the party

o   The practice of religion was discouraged since they treated religion as a hostile force. Is because the presence of religion may hinder them to use violence in stopping the unjust practice

 

Countries where Communism is applied

 

            Soviet Union

 

                        All the economic organizations and processes are under the laws of the government and the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. The industries are managed by the ministries of the government. It is under the administration of the government that the republics, branches, and operations of all industries, agriculture, public utilities, and trade are controlled

 

            Red China

 

                        Communist China under Mao Tse Tung where the government controls all the industries, agriculture trade. There is equal distribution of wealth in a commune though quota was imposed on the workers.

 

            Yugoslavia

 

                        An economic system that is in line with communism though it is a democratic centralized communist system where the workers can partake in the operation of a socialized industry and the farmers can own and cultivate their lands through cooperative agriculture.

 

                        Other countries that practice communism:

 

1.    Poland

2.    Czechoslovakia

3.    Hungary

4.    Vietnam

5.    Bulgaria

 

OTHER ECONOMIC SYSTEM

 

FEUDALISM

 

            Feudalism is a system of relations among the members of the upper class of Medieval Europe whereby a person is given a piece of land in exchange for military and political services rendered.

            In a broader sense, feudalism denotes “feudal society” which is a form of civilization and a type of society with certain characteristics besides the mere presence of the Lords, vassals, and fiefs. The people of the era performed civil or military service in exchange for land to be tilled. “Vassals” belongs to the warriors class of the period who is the recipient of the land known as a fief of feudum, while the feudal Lord is the head of the manor. “Manors” are the agricultural states the were formed after the division of the empire due to its fall.

            Thus, feudalism was derived from the word feudum denotes that it’s the system of landlordism. It was originally done simply to establish a mutually protective relationship. The period was characterized by a chaotic social condition, thus, there was a need for the establishment of strong military organizations through the use of the land or fief. Therefore, it is more of a military or political organization than an economic system

            The Lord and the vassals were interlocked in the web of mutual rights and obligations in a well-protected castle. It undertook an initiative of importance to the feudal community as a whole.

 

History

 

            Feudalism may have the beginning in the chaotic times that characterized the Dark Age when Barbarians wherein control after Alaric. The leader of the Visigoths captured Rome and much later on when the Roman Empire finally fell in 476 B.C.

            The Dark Ages was followed by the Medieval Period or the Middle Ages where manors came into being.

            Feudalism reached its height in the middle of the 11th century up to the 13th century.

 

Vassals Obligations to the Feudal Lord

 

1.    he must render military service at the time when it is needed

2.    he is responsible for planning all the activities of manor

3.    Financial obligation at the time when it is needed by the Lord like a marriage of the lord’s daughter, part of the ransom’s money when the lord was kidnapped, or anytime the manor needs some financial contributions.

 

Causes of the decline of Feudalism

 

o   land became so significant and a widespread of money in towns and cities

o   spread of capitalism and gunpowder

 

Feudalism was eradicated in England in 1622 but it has a tremendous influence on the Revolution of 1789 that put an end to the practice of feudalism in Europe although Germany had a hard time eradicating feudalistic practices.

 

Countries under Feudalism

 

The Kingdom of Franks was the first site of feudalistic system. Such kingdom was between two rivers, namely Rhine and Loire Rivers. The Carolingian Empire, which was composed of the following: southern France, Catalonia, Conburdy, Saxony, and Bavaria, was under the feudal system too. It also reached Great Britain, Southern Italy, Jerusalem, and the Latin Empire of Constantinople.

            The Slavic and Scandinavian states were also influenced by the feudal system of Germany.

 

CACIQUISM

 

Is the system of landlordism in the Philippines during the colonial period of the Spaniards?  The rich landlords were called the caciques while the farmer who used the lands were called the tenants or kasama.

It is a political, social, and economic system where the local administration was managed by the cacique.  It is a type of bossism, semi feudalistic and property ownership.

 

History

 

It is the counterpart of feudalism in the Philippines reckoned with by the Filipinos who had a chance to occupy a position during the Spanish period.  The caciques were the influential citizens occupying higher positions in society during the colonial period.  It is described the rural way of life during Spanish times. Such practice was already widespread even before the coming of the Spaniards.  This was the implementation of taxation.

 

The caciques were similar to the feudal barons of medieval Europe during the rise of feudalism.  He is powerful, wealthy, and occupies a high status in society.  He has control over other citizens of his town.  As a patriarch, he is responsible for the economic, social, and spiritual well-being of the people, as a “father” to everyone, he is being respected and served by the people. They were the tax collectors, in charge of the safety and justice of people within his jurisdiction.  He served as a mediator between the religious groups and the government officials of Spain during the period.

 

SYSTEM OF LAND ARRANGEMENTS

 

·         Inquilino system-  it is also known as the “leasing system” since rents are paid to the cacique for the use of the land. The cacique is an absentee landlord where he need not have

direct supervision over the piece of land being loaned since his interest lies on the rents which are paid in cash or crop equivalent (kind).

 

·         Kasama system-  it is the system of partnership where the tenant and the cacique contributed to the cultivation of the land then products will be divided equally.

 

If the labor plus all the materials and expenses are shouldered by the tenant while the cacique contributed only his land 2/3 of the harvest will go to the tenants while the remaining 1/3 will be received by the cacique.

 

On the other hand, if 50% of the expenses and materials plus the labor is shared by the tenant or kasama, while another 50% of the expenses and materials will be shouldered by the cacique plus island, then the harvest will be divided equally.

 

·         Tenant-servant System -  The tenant enjoyed free board and lodging in the sense that he was given a small house and lot near the vast land known as hacienda that he will cultivate. As a servant, his duty is to cultivate the land. In return, he will receive a fixed share from the harvest whether he has a good or low harvest.

 

·         Clearing system – This system applies to “virgin lands” that require some clearing. During the process of clearing, no rents are paid to the cacique. But after the clearing, less than 50% of the harvest goes to the cacique and as the harvest improved, 50% or more is imposed.

 

EVILS OF CACIQUISM

 

  • Usury System – It is the practice of lending money that prescribed a very high rate of interest like the following:

 

a.    Takipan – It prescribed a 100% rate of interest per harvest.

b.    Talindua – It prescribed a 50% rate of interest per harvest.

c.    Terciahan – It prescribed 33-1/3% interest per harvest.

 

  • Paternalism -  It refers to the complete dependence on the lord where he was seen as a great provider of everything. Due to such practice, resulted to laziness among the Filipinos who can no longer decide on their own and cannot stand on their own feet.

 

  • Asking for Free services – Because of the utang na loob or debt of gratitude, the money borrowed is not only paid in cash but even in services.

 

  • Curtailment of the Right of Suffrage – It is not only the land and its harvest that is being controlled by the cacique but even his mind specifically his choice of candidates. The cacique will dictate to his tenants whom to vote for and failure to follow will mean that their lives will be threatened.

 

 

DECLINE OF CACIQUISM

 

            Caciquism lasted in the Philippines for several years during the Spanish Period since the tenants were very obedient to their cacique. But with the coming of the Americans who introduced education, caciquism slowly declined. This is because education was the strongest force to fight caciquism. It was due to education where people became aware of the quality of all men regardless of their race, religion, or color. The inferior feeling of being brown or black and the wrong notion about Catholicism were totally eradicated due to education. Thus, people started to fight for their rights.

 

 

MERCANTILISM 

            Mercantilism is a political theory that was widely accepted in Europe in the 16th to 18th centuries. If the state is to gain wealth, power, and prestige, the government-controlled the economy.

            This is based on the mercantilist doctrine which states that the wealth of a nation is measured by the amount of gold and silver it has accumulated through the export of its products as well as the conquest of small states.

            This was aptly called nationalism through commerce.

 

History and Nations who practice Mercantilism

 

            Mercantilism was widespread in Europe from the16th to 18th centuries. It was used in Great Britain, France, and the Netherlands in the States that they conquer such as New England, the Caribbean countries, and the West Indies. This was practiced too, by Portugal and Spain in their conquest of the Philippines. This system prevailed in America when it came under the control of Great Britain, France, Spain, and Portugal. Up to this time, countries in the so-called New World show manifestations of their colonial past under these countries, such as language, laws, religion, and beliefs.

            Today, however, the system of mercantilism no longer exists

 

Economic activities emphasized under Mercantilism

 

·         Precious metals like gold and silver were used as the measure of the wealth of nations.

·         If a country has no mines or access to them, then gold and silver should be obtained by means of trade.

·         Favorable Balance of Trade must be maintained where exports are greater than its imports.

 

·         Each country wishes to have a large population for it will provide for a supply of labor, big market, and source of soldiers.

·         Consumption of imported luxury goods is discouraged for it will bring out the country’s precious metals.

·         Manufacturing are forbidden in the colonies since they will be the market of their mother country.

·         Thrift, saving and patrimony were regarded as virtues.

 

When mercantilism was eradicated, it gave way to a new economic

the system is known as capitalism.

 

FASCISM

 

            A rightist political movement that governed Italy as a dictatorship from 1922-1943. Fascism was derived from the Latin word fascis, or bundle of rods to symbolize authority and power. It is an economic system where the dictator controls all the industries.

            The founder of the fascist movement was Benito Mussolini and his followers in Milan, Italy in March 1919. He was an Italian dictator from 1922-1943. It emerged in time and was proclaimed as the enemy of Italian communism. Fascism promised reforms through violence.

            In Germany, Fascist Party of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party of the Nazi Party was headed by Adolf Hitler. Hitler disregarded the use of the constitution in Germany and transformed the country into a fascist state. He was remembered for murdering millions of Jews to prove the superiority of the German race.

 

        

Characteristics

 

·         The rule of totalitarianism or dictatorship.

·         Complete control and management by the government of all the political, economic, social, cultural and religious affairs of the nation.

·         Some industries were allowed to be privatized provided they are still under then control of the government.

·         Patriotism and war-like policies were imposed

·         All industries are strictly managed by the government in order to make sure that the needs of the country are met.

·         Importation of products from other countries are prohibited

·         Strike and organizing trade unions are not allowed by the government

·         The corporation established by the government are run by government workers and employees.

·         Government fixed the wages, working hour and the production goals of corporation.

·         The government controls the newspaper, radio and other means of communication.

·         Any violation to the rules of the government may result to punishment, imprisonment or death of the violator.

·         The young are encouraged by the government to join the organizations that are promoting the teaching of fascism

·         The national planning board plans the economy.

 

Advantage of Fascism

 

a.    Emphasis is centered on the economy.

b.    Workers enjoy equal wages and benefits.

c.    Discipline is inculcated among the people starting from their childhood days.

 

d.    Production is focused of the needs of the country

e.    The country does not depend upon the importation for goods from other countries

f.     Production is not delayed by strikes

g.    Limited private ownership is allowed

 

Disadvantage

 

a.    The rights and freedom of the people are limited by the government

b.    Violent and war-like policies are implemented by the government

c.    Presence of only one political party

d.    Absence of the freedom of speech and press

e.    Violent means are used to achieve their goals

f.     There is no respect for private life of the people

g.    Spiraling of prices of the products

h.    The minorities are exploited and killed in the process of achieving their goals

i.      The secret police are in charge of the opposition

 

Countries that implemented Fascism

 

            Italy – Benito Mussolini started fascism in Italy; Germany – Adolf Hitler was the leader who established the fascist state in Germany; Hungary – the Arrow Cross fascist party led by fascism in the 1930’s’; Romania – the Iron Guard fascist political party was the strongest party in Romania; Japan – in 1930, the fascist group became famous in Japan; Argentina – dictatorship under the leadership of President Juan D. Peron was established in Argentina from 1944-1955; Spain- during the Spanish civil war (1936-1939), the France Espanola” a fascist group, supported the revolution headed by Francisco Franco when he won as  he managed a fascist type of government in Spain.t means are used to achieve their goals

f.     There is no respect for private life of the people

g.    Spiraling of prices of the products

h.    The minorities are exploited and killed in the process of achieving their goals

i.      The secret police are in charge of the opposition

 

Countries that implemented Fascism

 

            Italy – Benito Mussolini started fascism in Italy; Germany – Adolf Hitler was the leader who established the fascist state in Germany; Hungary – the Arrow Cross fascist party led by fascism in the 1930’s’; Romania – the Iron Guard fascist political party was the strongest party in Romania; Japan – in 1930, the fascist group became famous in Japan; Argentina – dictatorship under the leadership of President Juan D. Peron was established in Argentina from 1944-1955; Spain- during the Spanish civil war (1936-1939), the France Espanola” a fascist group, supported the revolution headed by Francisco Franco when he won as he managed a fascist type of government in Spain.


Related Topics

·                     Introduction of Microeconomics 

·                     Scarcity

·                     Production possibilities

·                     Basic Economic Problem

·                      Circular flow of Economic Activity

·                      Common types of Economic System

·                     Economic resources

·                      Demand supply and markets

·                     Demand

·                     Supply

·                     Elasticity of demand and supply

·                     Market

·                     Surplus 

·                     Shortage

·                     Determinants of elasticity

·                     Theory of consumer behavior 

·                     Laws that aim to protect consumers. 

 

 


Previous Post Next Post