For many, the battle between “capitalism” and “socialism” — much less communism — has been fought and won. The collectivist societies of Bolshevik Russia, China and Cuba rose and swiftly collapsed while market-friendly countries across the world prospered. Countries with private property rights, lower taxes, less regulation and a fair rule of law defeated those with more centralized economies. Generally speaking, the world has moved toward freedom.

But today, there’s been a surge of affection for “socialism” — or at least “democratic socialism.” But how do we define these terms? Where did these ideas come from? And is the likely end result what people really want?

Dr. Paul Kengor, a historian and professor of political science, will talk about the forgotten history and legacy of communism and socialism and their effect on society and political conversations today.

Dr. Paul Kengor is professor of political science at Grove City College in Grove City, Penn., and a New York Times bestselling author of over a dozen books. He is executive director of the Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College and a fellow with Stanford’s Hoover Institution.

Dr. Kengor is a frequent columnist in the National Catholic Register and The American Spectator and often quoted in a variety of media. His articles have appeared in the New York Times, National Review, CNN.com, the Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today and more. Among his bestselling books are God and Ronald Reagan, The Communist, and A Pope and a President: John Paul II, Ronald Reagan, and the Extraordinary Untold Story of the 20th Century.

Event is free for attendees who RSVP. Registration is required by Oct. 3. Please register online here. 

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact us at 989-698-1905 or events@mackinac.org.