Kevin Tang
In this sub page, origins of the Cold War and the fundamental differences between the Soviet Union and the United States will be discussed. Also, we will analyze the role of ideology and the different contrasting ideologies of different super powers.
Cold War
The cold war began at the end of World War 2, and took place in Europe. After the surrender of Nazi Germany in 1945, the alliance between the Soviet Union and the United states began to disintegrate. The two superpowers sacrificed their partnership for their own national interest. And through these superpowers the two main ideologies were born; capitalism, and communism. These two super powers began to compete for allies in Asia, Africa, and Latin America to increase the magnitude of this rivalry. Furthermore, The Cold War began because of the incompatible social, political, and economic systems between the two super powers.
Contrast between the United States and the U.S.S.R.
The two super powers were different in many ways. Their ideologies were very different which forced them to have different systematic protocols. The United States were against the suppression of civil and religious institution such as the press, trade unions, opposition parties, and churches. Also, the U.S. promoted free markets and property rights. Their overarching ideology of capitalism changed the economic, social, and political systems used. Moreover, this type of capitalism was a reformed and more fair system than the laissez-faire capitalism of the nineteenth century. It protected the social and economic rights of citizens, and allowed government intervention in the economy. The Soviet Union and Communist way is very different; it was more controlling, and absolute. The Soviet Union did not allow the freedom of press and publication, and censored many things that would hurt the government or make the communist power look weak and unethical, such as, the Nuclear explosion in Chernobyl. Also Communism aimed for balanced growth, or equality, forcing everyone to be in one single class. Nikita Khrushchev believed that communism would out produce capitalist societies in materials and goods.
Role of Ideologies in the Cold War
Ideologies served as the main contrast and reason for the Cold War. It sparked action and need to convince other countries and produce propaganda to gain more and more allies. Due to the incompatibility of the two ideologies the Cold War was forced to begin. The two super powers were racing and constantly trying to beat each other to prove that their ideology was right.
Contrasts of Ideology
The two ideologies capitalism and communism have many differences. Capitalism allows free market and private property; meaning, that there will be multiple social classes and more competition for wealth and production. Also in Capitalism, industries and trade are controlled by private owners for profit and not for the state.
On the other hand, Communism does not allow a free market and everything is owned on a communal basis. Therefore, there is only one social class. Communism, however, does not promote competition due to the restricted market. With a restricted market, citizens are less competitive and motivated creating less output because they are paid by their needs and abilities, but not by their overall product. Also communism does not allow free speech, and is completely controlled by the government.
On the other hand, Communism does not allow a free market and everything is owned on a communal basis. Therefore, there is only one social class. Communism, however, does not promote competition due to the restricted market. With a restricted market, citizens are less competitive and motivated creating less output because they are paid by their needs and abilities, but not by their overall product. Also communism does not allow free speech, and is completely controlled by the government.