Political Ideologies

Communism
Conceived by Karl Marx (and Friedrich Engels), communism planned for the seizing of power by the people from the rich in a violent way (through revolution). A true communist society would see the loss of private property and eventually government resulting in economic equality for all people. Despite there being a number of communist states throughout history, this has yet to be truly achieved.

Socialism
Democratic (or sometimes not) ideology where there is a believe in equality and community. There are no really rich members of society as all people should share in the most lucrative companies (and therefore wealth). Socialists favour heavy government intervention in the economy to insure all people are equal. Contrary to communism, this economic equality should be reached in a peaceful manner.

Liberalism
A democratic, capitalist ideology with a commitment to economic equality, brought about by a limited amount of government intervention in the economy. It is the job of the government to insure that people have the basics to survive. Concerned with the individual as opposed to community. There are two different schools of liberalism... classical and reform. Reform liberalism allows for some distribution of resources through taxation (allows for slightly more government intervention than classical liberalism).

Conservatism
Like liberalism, a democratic, capitalist ideology with a belief in intellectual equality, but also a strong belief that traditional ways of politics and living must be preserved. Conservatives feel that moral issues are a matter of public concern. Tendency to favour economic freedom and tax advantages for the rich.

Fascism
Strong nationalistic ideology where all economic and intellectual resources are directed to creating a militarily strong and united country. There is no room for intellectual freedom (as witnessed during World War II) and only limited economic freedom. Private property and business are permitted but tightly regulated by the government to serve the government. It is ruled by a dictator.