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By what standard do we evaluate a social system? Do we accept a system based on its theoretical structure, its promised outcome, a majority vote or is it by some other means that a system should be judged?

Concerning the system of socialism, most of its proponents seem to be taken in by its theory, not its merit. This is no insult to the socialists intelligence many of the brightest minds fall under its spell. Its a matter of perspective. The socialist tends toward rationalism. I say rationalism in the philosophical sense, meaning the socialist places higher trust in reason than in experience. On paper, this is only logical, but in practice, not all rational arguments unfold with such precision.

On the other hand, the capitalist tends toward empiricism, observing the system and formulating a judgment based on its applied effects. It is no secret that mankinds standard of living and political freedom have rapidly accelerated after the birth of capitalism. Its also no secret that the more society advances socialist doctrines, the more impoverished and enslaved they become.

This is not to say that free markets dont have their own shortcomings nor should it be said that the intentions of socialism are valueless. It isnt perfection that the capitalist seeks, rather effectiveness. It isnt that the capitalist is opposed to social justice, equality and economic freedom, rather that the methods by which the socialist proposes to achieve these ends have proven destructive.

Common ground between these two opposing camps may very well be found in empiricism. To bring about stronger cohesion and a unified political direction, socialists dont have to abandon their goals, only their methods.

Tanner Cook lives in Fargo.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Forum's editorial board nor Forum ownership.

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Letter: The common ground between socialism and capitalism - INFORUM