Realist pragmatism in socialist Cuba

Cuba’s socialist-oriented mixed economy under state direction

The characteristics of Cuban socialism

    In my August 7, 2021, commentary, I discussed the characteristics of Cuban socialism, including, among other issues, Cuba’s pragmatic approach to its socialist economy.  See “Reflections on Cuban socialism:  A people’s anti-imperialist revolution with conservative values,” August 7, 2021.  I described the Cuban approach as a “socialist third way,” a synthesis of capitalism and socialism that, unlike the “third way” proposed by Bill Clinton and Tony Blair, is not ultimately an alternative form of capitalism, but a new form of socialism.  Today, I elaborate on this theme.

     The Cuban synthesis of socialism and capitalism was present from the beginning.  At the time of the triumph of the revolution, Fidel proposed an autonomous industrial development led by the Cuban industrial bourgeoisie.  However, Cuban industrialists did not accept Fidel’s call to join the revolution, and they instead abandoned the country and participated in the counterrev…