Traits Leading to Marxism and Communism

The relationship between personality traits and political ideologies has been extensively studied, with numerous academic inquiries exploring the potential links between individual psychological characteristics and adherence to specific political philosophies. In this research paper, we delve into the personality traits that may predispose individuals towards Marxism and communism, drawing insights from the existing literature.

Several studies suggest that certain personality traits may be associated with left-wing political orientations, including Marxism and communism. For instance, research has shown that individuals who score high on openness to experience, a trait characterized by curiosity, creativity, and a preference for novelty, are more likely to embrace liberal or left-leaning political views(Xu et al., 2016)(Chirumbolo & Leone, 2010)(Carney et al., 2008). This openness to new ideas and a willingness to challenge the status quo may resonate with the revolutionary and egalitarian principles of Marxism and communism.

Additionally, research has indicated that individuals with high levels of agreeableness, which involves traits such as empathy, altruism, and a concern for social harmony, are also more inclined towards left-wing political ideologies. The emphasis on collective welfare and social justice inherent in Marxism and communism may appeal to those with a strong sense of social responsibility and a desire to promote the well-being of the broader community.

Conversely, studies have found that personality traits associated with conservatism, such as high levels of conscientiousness and a preference for order and tradition, are less likely to be associated with Marxist or communist leanings. Individuals with these traits may be more inclined towards the stability and hierarchy inherent in traditional political and economic structures, which may conflict with the revolutionary and egalitarian principles of Marxism and communism.

It is important to note that while these trends have been observed in the literature, the relationship between personality and political ideology is complex and multifaceted. Factors such as socialization, life experiences, and contextual influences can also play a significant role in shaping an individual's political beliefs(Jost et al., 2008).

Furthermore, it is crucial to recognize that personality traits are not deterministic of political affiliation, and individuals with diverse personality profiles may still be drawn to Marxism or communism due to a variety of personal, social, and historical factors.

Agreeableness should not be confused with apologetic, as it is also worth mentioning that when the liberal leaning population believe in their goal, they believe that the end justifies the means and can be more willing to resort to unconventional or even unethical methods to achieve their objectives. This is an important consideration when examining the influence of personality traits on political ideologies(Carney et al., 2008).

Research suggests that individuals who feel socially excluded or unappreciated by their peers tend to be drawn to ideologies promoting egalitarianism and collectivism, such as Marxism and communism(Jost et al., 2008). These people often perceive the system as unfair and stacked against them, leading them to gravitate towards ideas promising to overthrow the existing order and redistribute power and wealth more evenly(Cheema, 2006).

While personality traits may play a role in an individual's political orientation, it is crucial to consider the complex interplay of psychological, social, and historical factors that shape one's adherence to Marxism, communism, or any other political ideology. Historically, revolutions led by those not viewed as societal "geniuses" often transform into oppressive, totalitarian regimes. As the saying goes, "power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." There is a critical mass of government power and influence that can seemingly make the shift from democracy to totalitarianism inevitable, despite initial good intentions. It is interesting to note that people in professions they consider critical to society but with relatively low salaries are often among the first to embrace Marxism. Left-leaning governments may gravitate towards supporting these populations through taxpayer funds, leading to greater dependency and frustration as the provided support is insufficient for true economic freedom(Cassinelli, 1960).

One strategy to secure broader support is to present a compassionate front for underrepresented groups and shame any resistance, allowing the movement to garner support from individuals and organizations naturally resistant to such ideologies due to their hard-earned, meritocracy-based positions in society(Paert, 2005). The progressive forces often cultivate a narrative that paints them as noble champions of the poor and downtrodden, cloaking their underlying desire for power and creating mass anxiety, suspicion, and conformity in the population they control(Kirkpatrick, 1980).

DEI, mass immigration, defunding the police, not prosecuting crimes, removing weapons from the public (2nd amendment), demonization of their rivals, cancel culture, identity politics, assassinations, imprisonment of rivals are all strategies aimed at one goal, maintain power and cause dissent to consolidate their influence(McCauley & Moskalenko, 2008). the ultimate aim is to manufacture consent through censorship, propaganda, and the control of information (Cassinelli, 1960).

As evidenced from the historical analysis of the rise of totalitarian regimes, while the initial rhetoric and justification may appear to be based on altruistic and egalitarian principles, the end result is invariably a centralization of power that crushes individual liberties and reduces the population to a state of mass submission(Arendt, 1953)(Brzeziński, 1956)(Staroń, 1969).

It is quite concerning that the same path followed by Mao in China, the Iranian Revolution, North Korea, and Stalin's Russia is now unfolding in the USA, Canada, and the UK under the guise of social justice and economic equality. The corrosive effect of such ideologies on individual freedom, the rule of law, and economic prosperity is well documented throughout history (Guriev & Treisman, 2019).

It is worth noting that the extreme right also has its own flavor of revolution, but they do not leverage compassion as a means of garnering support. Soliciting significant support for their extreme causes is more challenging, a challenge not shared by Marxist/communist revolutionaries (Jost et al., 2003).

Advancements in Generative AI may lead to the elimination of low-paying jobs in academia and the media, potentially opening new pathways for these individuals to find better-paying and more fulfilling employment. However, it is crucial to recognize that life is inherently unfair, and not everyone possesses the same potential, even when provided with equal starting opportunities. The population exhibits a vast spectrum of intellectual capabilities, and it is unrealistic to expect everyone to achieve the same level of success. Based on human experience, capitalism, while imperfect, remains the most effective system for managing the economy, and it continues to be the best option available at the present time, same could be said about democracy and freedom, what we have is precious, rare and fragile, we should all protect it.

The sources cited (Barbosa & Barbosa, 2020)(Harvey, 2010)(Welzel, 2013)(Hutter & Hutter, 2021)

In conclusion, when faced with new information, it is essential to ask yourself: am I accepting it because I am being shamed and programmed, is it factual, or am I just a useful pawn playing into a narrative that can destroy this great country?

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