Socialist Danger

(An abridged Russian-language translation of "Le peril socialiste" by Vilfredo Pareto, originally published in Journal des Economistes, 1900, May, 161-178.) Defines the following socialist sects: scientific, orthodox (uncompromising Marxists), vulgar, ethical (moral), & radical. A parallel is drawn between early Christianity & contemporary socialism, & it is warned that the latter may triumph because of the unwitting support from the bourgeoisie, much like Christianity took over due to the Roman aristocracy's embrace of the Eastern cults, mysticism, & limitless humanism. Using the example of workers preventing strike breakers from taking their place, it is claimed that the workers enjoy more rights than capitalists, who have to settle disputed matters through the court of law. The programs of vulgar & ethical socialists are analyzed, mocking the latter by comparing ethical socialists to "hygienists" who propose prohibitions to spit, to kiss, & to get married without a physician's permission. It is argued that, paradoxically, at the present time with the liberals wavering, only the orthodox socialists fight the ethical socialists' theories, defend societal & intellectual freedoms, & support the rule of law. It is predicted that once the socialists come to power, the situation will change, & their regime is likely to become oppressive. 1 Table. A. Schwarzman