I wanted to reply but the thread got locked. However, anyone idealizing socialism should think again. It's one thing to agree with theoretical principles but in reality, socialism is all about the formation of a corrupt chain of command. And this is in all avenues of life.

Socialism claims to be a fairer system. In reality, all that happens is syndicates get formed and there's a lot of cheating and "favors" for the right people.

I know it's easy from a distance to resonate with the principles of socialism and think well maybe if it's implemented right the corruption can be eliminated, but it can't. This isn't to say democracy is any less corrupt, but socialism sure as shit doesn't solve this, and in addition, it imposes restrictions on citizens.

Trust me, I live in Czech Republic and for the last 12 years I've interviewed many people and heard 100's of accounts from all angles and elevation in society, including those strongly opposed to socialism, those who initially bought into it but became disenfranchised over time, and those who straight up swear by it. I've used their responses as a basis for further interviews and have cross-referenced opinion.

It helped me understand why certain elements of Czech society exist, why certain behaviors and mechanisms are still prevalent even post-socialism. I've even seen (in the work environment) the dynamics of socialism being applied, and I've felt the exclusion first hand, and I am sure this is exactly how it was for many under socialism.

And lastly, I would like to debunk one final myth that socialism was actually good in the sense that at least people behaved better to each other. No, this cannot be true. After traveling to many countries, and not just as a photo-snapping tourist, but having lived in these countries, I can honestly say I've never come such apathetic people like the Czechs, frankly cold and somewhat proud people who don't "really" give a shit about the next. Am I then supposed to believe that things were so much better under socialism? I really find that hard to believe.