Yes, for a few years the church practiced what they called the "United Order" where they supposed to have all things in common. It didn't last long and was replaced by the system of tithing and offerings.
Since then, the church has preached self-reliance, not community.
The church is virulently anti communist and extremely conservative. One of their "prophets" - Ezra Benson - preached against communism constantly and belonged to the John Birch Society.
Skousen is in lock step with these views.