A Correct Understanding and Scientific Evaluation of Stalin

Abstract

The evaluation of Stalin is a critical issue for the political principle of Marxism-Leninism. A scientific evaluation of Stalin necessitates, first and foremost, the consistent application of the Marxist stance, viewpoint and methodology. Basically, adherence to the Marxist-Leninist stance, viewpoint and methodology ultimately translates into a historical-materialist analysis in understanding historical figures. Evaluations of historical figures, when approached from differing standpoints and with divergent class interests, will inevitably yield fundamentally distinct observations and conclusions. To distort, negate or denigrate Stalin’s legacy results in severe historical consequences for Marxism and the cause of socialism. The complete negation of Stalin is not merely an objection to the cult of personality or a correction of his errors; rather, it is a pretext for repudiating the objective laws and inevitable trajectories of social and historical development. Such a stance rejects Marxism-Leninism and scientific socialism, denounces the dictatorship of the proletariat and the leadership of the Communist Party, and ultimately betrays Marxist-Leninist principles, thus abandoning the cause of scientific socialism and capitulating to the pursuit of Western capitalism.