: The power of this class stems from its administrative monopoly over the economy and ideology. Because it cannot allow any breach of its total authority, the system is inherently despotic. Industrialization as a Tool
: Djilas observes that industrialization in communist states was often pursued not for the benefit of the masses, but to consolidate the new class's control over society. Historical Significance SUMMARY OF THE NEW CLASS - by Milovan Djilas - CIA milovan djilas nova klasa pdf 86
Djilas argues that the communist elite is not merely a political group but a new form of ownership class. In traditional capitalism, property is owned individually; in communist systems, property is "nationalized," but the new class—composed of party officials and technocrats—collectively "uses, enjoys, and disposes" of this property as if it were their own. Key Arguments in "The New Class" The Paradox of Equality : The power of this class stems from