Soviet Power and Red Terror: Analysis of Lenin's Political Ideology and Extraordinary Commissions
Overview
This paper analyzes two key texts on Soviet power: Lenin's definition of Soviet power as rule by previously oppressed classes and his critique of capitalism's concentration of wealth, and the justification for Red Terror through Extraordinary Commissions. The student examines Lenin's arguments regarding the organization of Soviet government and the systematic use of terror against counter-revolutionary elements, class opponents, and those associated with white guard governments.
What this coursework covers
- Analysis of Lenin's 'What is Soviet Power?' - definition of Soviet power and critique of democratic capitalist states
- Discussion of 'Red Terror Legalized' - Extraordinary Commissions and methods of combating counter-revolution and crime
- Critical questions regarding political and economic influence of Soviet power and justification for terror-based methods
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Discussion
From the reading "What is Soviet Power?”, Soviet power is defined as the nature of power in the country ruled by the classes and the composition of those classes that were previously oppressed by capitalism (Lenin 1). I find interesting when the author notes that, even in the greatest democratic states, as long as the capital rules, the land remains an isolated property. Also, the administration will continuously be in the hands of the smaller minorities, and one-tenth of it comprises the rich or the capitalists (Lenin 1). The author was right about the subject by giving an example of Russia, a country that employs Soviet Power. The government of Russia is well-organized. The exploiters comprise mass organizations referred to as Soviets who wield power.
From the reading, "Red Terror Legalized," the author discusses that combating the commission's counter-revolution, speculation, and crime actions and discoveries is to send a more significant number of the accountable party companions to all Extraordinary Russian Commissions. The commissions are for combating of the counter-revolution, speculation, and crime to reinforce its effort (789). Also, introducing it into a much more methodical character is essential to protect the Soviet Republic from class opponents by separating them in attentiveness camps. What is troubling about this is that all individuals linked with white guard governments, rebellions, and plots are accountable to be shot. The author was right by stating the names of those who will be shot will be published since it is true.