Like Soviet Union, PRC, DPRK, Viet Nam? From my understanding these weren't/aren't really ruled by the people but by a wealth(ier) elite, they use systems of money, have (limited) private property, etc.

Which, imo, is capitalism or (its friendlier variant) socialism (which has some communist features like universal healthcare for example), but is not communism.

Isn't the goal of communism supposed to be anarchist communism (no state [government], also no rich/poor divide)? Where nothing is owned, either by the state or by individuals?

I didn't think statism is compatible with communism.

    • Tankiedesantski [he/him]
      ·
      4 years ago

      Take that as you will but there is a basis for things like the CCP in Marxist orthodoxy, and looking at their middle class it’s fairly compelling

      Looking at the middle class, and more importantly, the objective standard of living of the people. For all of Mao's impressive achievements, he was not able to deliver the sort of rapid increase in living standards that China saw after Deng's reforms.