> Socialism is often misunderstood by being equated with a national
>state government, but there is no reason why socialist forms of
>government shouldnt begin at the local level, in city councils,
>neighborhoods, even apartment buildings.
Actually, there is a very good reason why socialism cannot operate in isolation.
The aim of the struggle to end class society is freedom from insecurity and want. We want it for all of humanity, rather than just ourselves. Not only because it is possible, or because it is just, but because it is the only security that is sustainable in the long term.
However, that kind of freedom and security cannot be enjoyed by a minority and still be called socialism. It can then only be seen as privilege, in the sense that those living in the municipality, neighbourhood or even apartment building, would be enjoying benefits which they are unable to share with those outside of this privileged enclave. Ultimately, they would likely be forced to defend themselves and their privileged lifestyle from the great majority of people around them, living in want. Perhaps by force, but at least by resort to the systems of law traditionally used to protect the haves from the have-nots.
Basically, a socialist enclave is a utopian fantasy and a very dangerous one at that.
Bill Bartlett Bracknell Tas