To protect this article and to advocate the benefits of diversity, I write this piece to help the public
distinguish the characteristics of extremism, understand its harms, and reflect on the terrifying
brutality of the Khmer Rouge.
Extremism and communism are two entirely different political and ideological phenomena.
However, due to their historical and practical intersections, they are often confused. This article
aims to compare the two in terms of definitions, goals, methods, and real-world manifestations,
to clarify their differences while reflecting on their possible overlaps.
- Definition and Essence
Extremism
- Definition: Extremism is an ideology or behavioral pattern characterized by rejecting
moderate positions and resorting to extreme means, including violence, oppression, and
even the elimination of dissent. - Characteristics:
o Emphasizes binary opposition (“us versus them”).
o Often lacks constructive and sustainable goals.
o Easily incites emotions and has strong emotional tendencies.
Communism - Definition: Communism is a socio-economic theory centered on social equality, the
elimination of class exploitation, and achieving collective prosperity. It originates from
the teachings of Marx and Engels. - Characteristics:
o Based on a theoretical system aiming for long-term social transformation.
o Core ideals include “distribution according to need” and “common prosperity.”
o Opposes capitalist exploitation but does not inherently rely on extreme
measures. Goals
Goals of Extremism - Often destructive, focusing on destroying existing systems or specific “enemies” rather
than constructive reform. - Short-sighted, such as seizing power or retaliating against opposing groups, often
lacking a clear long-term blueprint.
Goals of Communism - To eliminate class antagonism and create a fair society free of exploitation and
oppression. - Pursues a highly idealized social model where “the free development of each is the
condition for the free development of all.” - Fundamentally constructive, though it may encounter conflicts in practice.
- Methods of Implementation
Methods of Extremism - Irrational Means: Often relies on violence, intimidation, and authoritarian tactics.
- Emotional Manipulation: Incites hatred or fear to rally mass support.
- Exclusivity: Hostile towards dissent and neutrality, emphasizing “loyalty” or “purity.”
Methods of Communism - Theoretical Guidance: In Marxist theory, communism advocates achieving goals through
class struggle and the dialectical process of historical development. - Diverse Practices: Methods have varied widely in different historical contexts, from
revolutionary violence in the Soviet Union to peaceful socialism in Nordic countries. - Cooperation and Education: In theory, communism emphasizes transforming social
structures through ideological education and cooperation. - Historical Practice and Real-World Manifestations
Manifestations of Extremism Destructive: Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge era is a classic example of extremism. It
aimed to eliminate “enemies,” leading to societal collapse and large-scale humanitarian
disasters. - Short-Term: Extremist regimes often lack longevity due to widespread social opposition
and the loss of legitimacy caused by their actions.
Manifestations of Communism - Diverse Practices: Communism has produced varied results in different countries. The
Soviet Union, China, and Cuba adopted revolutionary paths, while Nordic “democratic
socialism” incorporated capitalist mechanisms. - Historical Challenges: Under extreme conditions, communist movements may intersect
with extremism (e.g., the “Cultural Revolution”), but these are often seen as deviations
from communism’s core goals. - Constructive Contributions: Communist practices have contributed to addressing
economic inequality, promoting universal education, and advancing healthcare systems. - Intersection Between Extremism and Communism
While the two are fundamentally different in theory, they may intersect in the following
scenarios: - Revolutionary Phase: Communism, in its early revolutionary stage, may resort to certain
extreme measures, such as violent uprisings. - Ideological Extremism: When communist regimes radicalize “class struggle” and
suppress dissent, they risk sliding into extremism. - Excessive Concentration of Power: In some communist countries, leaders have
maintained power through personality cults and terror tactics, displaying extremist
traits. - How to Avoid Extremism
To achieve communist ideals or other constructive goals, it is essential to prevent a descent into
extremism: - People-Centered Approach: Prioritize the well-being of the people over ideological
purity. - Rule of Law and Transparency: Build a society governed by the rule of law, ensuring
policies are not distorted by individual or party interests. - Diverse Dialogue: Allow different voices to coexist and resolve conflicts through peaceful
means. - Education and Awareness: Promote rationality, inclusivity, and critical thinking in the
education system to prevent the public from being incited by extremist ideologies.
Conclusion
Extremism and communism are fundamentally different. Extremism is irrational and
destructive, while communism is constructive and theory-driven. However, communist practices may deviate from their original intentions due to extremist tendencies. Therefore, whether for - communists or other social forces, peace, inclusiveness, and rationality must serve as the
- foundation to guard against all forms of extremism and to promote sustained social progress
- and equitable development.
- Written by Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew
- November 29, 2024