“The crucial distinction between systems...was no longer ideological.  The main political difference was between those who did, and those who did not, believe that the citizen could -- or should -- be the property of the state.”

Wow, a very accurate observation ! The nanny state has bought its parishioner property with a mess of pottage.

Humankind has been struggling for its freedom since recorded time. The belief that I am beholden to the state or the church is the glue that holds servitude together. Once that is gone, nothing can enslave a people. Liberation occurs in the hearts and minds of the people.