need to confirm that other than in the 19th century slavery was ended, yet the economic growth didn't slow down, but accelerated. never confuse what happened in parallel with the cause. to establish causal relationship, one needs reasoning and logic. so i ask for those, instead of marxist propaganda. Apr 23 2012: Hi Krisztian, I have attacked and do attack the central point of your argument, but more of that later. For now, we do at seem to be finally establishing parameters. You cannot simply 'decide' socialism means one thing when in fact it means another. It means, if we take 'a simple dictionary' as a way of defining meaning; a mix or balance of social policy balanced against capitalist forces. 'capitalism is the fuel (we) burn.' to use your words. There is no PURE socialism, just as there is no PURE free market capitalism. IF PURITY is the cornerstone of your position, (I have criticised you before for dealing in absolutes) then I suggest you rethink.Now allow me once again, to attack the central point of your argument. (feel free to read no further, you have heard it all before) 1. Socialism does not 'hold back progress' . It IS progress. It is the cornerstone of modern, compassionate, egalitarian civilisation. It is BY definition a restraint on the forces of capitalism, and this is the hallmark of a civilised developed society. WHEN it has been badly done (Hungary,if you will, East Germany, Stalin's Russia) its just a bad design.