Communist governments took power in poor countries and had to endure ‘primitive accumulation’ before they could start building a socialist economy. At best they created workers’ states where employment and basic services were guaranteed to all.

Actually near nearsightedness is due to brightness levels being much indoors rather than focal points. Even on cloudy days it’s much brighter outdoors. There’s also evidence that natural light has a calming effect on people.

How can a capitalist country have a national health service?

Whilst dissent event is catchier than mass public incident the fact that it includes petitioning through official channels makes it a meaningless number. It’s like measuring the health of a democracy by measuring voter turn out.

There are Irish republicans who refuse to swear allegiance to the king/ queen and are unable to take their seats in Westminster. This doesn’t trigger a by-election though.