The Effects of the Reform on Cuba's Social Structure: An Overview

In: Socialism and democracy: the bulletin of the Research Group on Socialism and Democracy, Band 15, Heft 1, S. 23-39

Abstract

Prieto looks at Cuba's economic reform as an "experiment in socioeconomic change." Considered are Cuba's tradition of participation-oriented social structural analysis, its place in the context of global economic transformation, & the potential of social restructuring. The ongoing influence of Soviet thinking is noted. Ways in which socialism has adapted & continues to adapt to issues of property, class, socioeconomic differentiation, & private production are considered. It is asserted that Cuba reflects Latin American culture & economics. A list of pertinent factors includes the rising power of landowners, cuts in wages, production decline, sexual segregation, & the increased significance of small & medium-sized firms. There is assessment of reform & social/structural change as well as an outline of trends including new class formations, divisions among workers, reordering of agricultural production, & promotion of professional diversification. 18 References. M. C. Leary