In the 20th century, one of the most significant threats to global freedom and democracy was the rise of Communism. W. Cleon Skousen’s “The Naked Communist” is an essential work that exposes the core tenets of Communism and provides a roadmap for how to confront and ultimately defeat this ideology. The book serves as a warning and a guide, detailing the Communist agenda while answering the crucial question: What can we do to stop Communism?
The Unbelievable Success of the Communist Conspiracy
The preface of “The Naked Communist” sets the stage by acknowledging the astonishing success of Communism in spreading its influence across the globe. Skousen attributes this success to two primary factors: ignorance about the constitutional principles required to sustain freedom, and a lack of understanding of the history, philosophy, and strategy of World Communism. This ignorance allowed Communist ideologies to take root in various societies, undermining their democratic foundations and paving the way for totalitarian regimes.
Skousen’s study is a distillation of over a hundred books and treatises, many of them penned by Communist authors. The book seeks to strip Communism of its propaganda and pretense, revealing its true nature as “modern materialism in action.” By presenting a comprehensive picture of Marxism, Skousen aims to disarm the fear of the unknown that often surrounds discussions of Communism, making it more accessible and less frightening to the average reader.
The Essence of Communism: A Living, Breathing Force
One of the most compelling aspects of “The Naked Communist” is Skousen’s portrayal of Communism as a living, breathing force rather than a static ideology. The book meticulously outlines the political developments, philosophy, economic theory, and key figures in World Communism, situating them within their historical contexts. This approach helps readers understand that Communism is not just an abstract idea but a dynamic and evolving threat that has real-world consequences.
Skousen’s work also benefits from the insights of disillusioned Communist officials who have defected from behind the Iron Curtain. These individuals provide a rare glimpse into the Marxian-disciplined mind, offering firsthand accounts of life under Communist regimes. Their testimonies remove much of the mystery surrounding Communism, exposing the harsh realities that millions of people endure under its rule.
How to Stop Communism Without a Major War
One of the most important questions “The Naked Communist” answers is how to stop the spread of Communism without resorting to a major war. Skousen argues that the key lies in education and understanding. By educating the public about the true nature of Communism, its history, and its goals, we can undermine its appeal and prevent it from gaining a foothold in free societies.
- Educating the Public:
The first step in combating Communism is to educate the public about what it truly represents. This involves debunking the myths and propaganda that often surround Communist ideologies and revealing the harsh realities of life under Communist regimes. Education should focus on the historical failures of Communism, the atrocities committed by Communist governments, and the inherent flaws in Marxist theory. - Strengthening Constitutional Principles:
Skousen emphasizes the importance of understanding and upholding the constitutional principles that are essential for the preservation of freedom. This includes a strong commitment to individual rights, the rule of law, and democratic governance. By reinforcing these principles, societies can create a robust defense against the encroachment of Communist ideologies. - Promoting Economic Freedom:
One of the reasons Communism has been able to spread is because of economic discontent in various parts of the world. Skousen advocates for the promotion of economic freedom as a countermeasure. By fostering environments where free markets can thrive and where individuals have the opportunity to prosper, the appeal of Communism’s promise of economic equality is significantly diminished. - Exposing Communist Subversion:
Another crucial aspect of stopping Communism is to expose and counteract Communist subversion efforts. This includes identifying and neutralizing Communist influence in political, educational, and cultural institutions. By shining a light on these subversive activities, societies can protect themselves from the internal erosion that often precedes the rise of Communist regimes. - Supporting Freedom Movements:
Finally, Skousen advocates for supporting movements that promote freedom and democracy in countries where Communism has taken hold. By providing moral, financial, and political support to these movements, free societies can help to weaken Communist regimes from within and promote the spread of democratic values.
The Naked Communist
“The Naked Communist” remains a powerful and relevant work in today’s world. Skousen’s insights into the nature of Communism and his strategies for combating it offer valuable lessons for anyone concerned about the preservation of freedom. By educating ourselves and others, reinforcing our commitment to constitutional principles, promoting economic freedom, exposing subversion, and supporting freedom movements, we can stop the spread of Communism without resorting to war. In doing so, we uphold the values that are essential for a free and just society.
