GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE Sociology GlossaryCommunism

Communism - GCSE Sociology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

Published

Communism is a political and economic ideology that aims for a classless society where all property and resources are collectively owned by the community rather than by individuals.

In this system, the state typically plans and controls the economy, with the goal of distributing goods and services according to people's needs. The idea is to eliminate social inequalities by removing private ownership of the means of production, such as factories and land, and ensuring that wealth is shared equitably amongst everyone.

Communism contrasts with capitalist systems, where property and businesses are privately owned and operated for profit. Understanding communism helps students explore different perspectives on how societies can be structured and managed.

Examiner-written GCSE Sociology revision resources that improve your grades 2x

  • Written by expert teachers and examiners
  • Aligned to exam specifications
  • Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
GCSE Sociology revision resources

Share this article

Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now