Communism is a socio-economic ideology and political system that advocates for a classless society where resources are owned and controlled collectively. Its core principles, derived from the writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, posit that workers should control the means of production, and wealth should be distributed equally among all members of society. In a communist state, private property is abolished, and the government plays a dominant role in planning and directing the economy. While some view communism as an equitable system promoting social justice and equality, others criticize it for its historical instances of authoritarianism and lack of individual freedoms.