Communism, Socialism, Capitalism – What’s the Difference

CLASS BEGINS:  September 10, 2026

COURSE DURATION:  1 school year, from September 10 through May 27

Course Description  This course provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of the world’s three dominant economic and political systems: capitalism, socialism, and communism. Students will critically evaluate the core theoretical frameworks, historical evolutions, and real-world implementations of each ideology, focusing heavily on how they distribute resources, power, and individual liberties. By examining both foundational texts and modern critiques, students will uncover the systemic strengths and structural failures that have shaped global history. Mastering these complex dynamics is vital for students to navigate contemporary geopolitical conflicts, evaluate public policy, and understand the shifting boundaries of the global economy.

Course Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Differentiate Ideologies:Compare the foundational theories of classical capitalism, Marxist communism, and democratic socialism using primary historical texts.
• Analyze Historical Policies:Trace how economic theories translated into 20th-century state policies, identifying the structural successes and failures of command versus market economies.
• Deconstruct Systemic Mechanics:Evaluate how different systems solve the problem of scarcity, comparing market price signals against centralized state allocation.
• Critique Ideological Trade-offs:Formulate evidence-based arguments regarding how each system balances individual liberty, economic equality, and productive efficiency.
• Evaluate Modern Hybrid Models:Analyze contemporary mixed economies, including the Nordic social democratic model and China’s state capitalism.
• Synthesize Solutions:Construct a capstone research project applying historical frameworks to modern systemic crises like automation or wealth inequality.

Assignment & Grading Breakdown

• Class Participation & Weekly Discussions: 25%
• Weekly Reading Reflections: 20%
• Midterm Roundtable Project: 25%
• Final Capstone Project & Presentation: 30%

COST:

• $275.00 per semester
• ($300 if a charter student)
• plus books.
• Miss Lilli is a vendor for: Sky Mountain, ILEAD, Excel Academy, Sage Oaks, Golden Valley, Gorman, Inspire, and more.

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Students are expected to bring the following to class on the first day.

-Writing paper and a writing tool such as a pen or pencil

–The Case Against Socialism by Rand Paul. Paperback version available at EIE for $19. Please notify Carolyn to make sure she didn’t run out.

 Assessment: Grades are based on weekly discussion participation and writing assignments.