On Deng Xiaoping's Theory of the Essence of Socialism

The theory of the essence of socialism created by Mr. Deng Xiaoping is an adjustment to the left deviation theory and practice and a continuation and development of Marxist scientific socialism theory. In the previous left deviation situation, there was only poor socialism which was far from the obligation of improving productivity and the goal of common prosperity, which are the basic factors of the Marxist socialism. The theory of the essence of socialism puts the revolution and development of productivity at the first place, has strong connection with socialism economic relations and emphasizes the goal of diminishing exploitation and poverty and realizing common prosperity. The theory of essence of socialism is based on public ownership and distribution according to work. Deng's theory of three favorable factors, related to the theory of the essence of socialism, is not a standard to judge capitalism and socialism but a standard to judge success or failure of reform and open-door polity.