Socialism Flashcards
What is the core belief of socialism?
That society should promote equality, cooperation, and social justice through collective effort.
What is collectivism?
The idea that collective action and shared ownership are superior to individual competition and private ownership.
What is common ownership?
A system where property and resources are owned by the community rather than individuals.
What is social equality?
The belief that all individuals should be treated equally and have equal access to resources and opportunities.
What is the socialist view of human nature?
Humans are social, cooperative, and capable of working together for the common good.
What are the main strands of socialism?
Revolutionary socialism, social democracy, and democratic socialism.
What is revolutionary socialism?
The belief that capitalism must be overthrown by revolution to create a socialist state.
What is social democracy?
A moderate form of socialism that seeks to reform capitalism through democratic means and welfare policies.
What is democratic socialism?
A more radical form of socialism that aims to achieve socialism through democratic processes, often involving nationalisation.
What is Marxism?
A revolutionary socialist ideology developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels advocating for class struggle and a classless society.
What is class conflict?
The struggle between the bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers) under capitalism.
What is the dictatorship of the proletariat?
A transitional socialist state after revolution, where the working class controls political power.
What is historical materialism?
Marx’s theory that material and economic forces drive historical development and social change.
What is false consciousness?
Marxist idea that the working class is unaware of their exploitation under capitalism.
What is socialism’s view of the economy?
It should be planned or regulated to promote fairness and avoid exploitation.
What is the welfare state?
A system where the state provides services like healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits to reduce inequality.
What is equality of outcome?
The belief that everyone should end up with similar living conditions, not just equal opportunities.
What is fraternity?
A belief in brotherhood and solidarity; people should care for and help one another.
What is social justice?
The fair distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.
What is the socialist view of the state?
It should play a major role in the economy and society to ensure fairness and equality.
marx and engels say the state should not exist in the long run, but is necessary rght now
What is the socialist critique of capitalism?
It creates inequality, exploitation, and alienation; prioritises profit over people.
Who is Karl Marx?
A revolutionary socialist who developed Marxism and argued for the abolition of capitalism through class struggle.
Who is Rosa Luxemburg?
A revolutionary socialist who opposed reformist socialism and supported mass strike action and international revolution.
Who is Beatrice Webb?
A democratic socialist who believed socialism could be achieved gradually through legal and political reform.
