socialism - economy

Question 1

P1. main point

Answer 1

Socialists’ opposition to free market capitalism forms the bedrock of socialist ideology, they argue that capitalism creates class divisions and inequality, as a fundamentally flawed system. Thus, the state should intervene to promote equality.

Question 2

P1a

Answer 2

• Socialists view capitalism as exploitative, where the profit motive and private ownership of the means of production lead to stark social class divisions and deep- seated inequalities.
• They seek to tackle this by promoting the interests of the working class and using state action to pursue equality within the economy and society.
• As a result, they support collectivism, and the state intervening in the economy to ensure a fairer distribution of wealth, resources and opportunities.
• Webb argued that state control and ‘rational’ planning was the most efficient way to pursue absolute equality and collectivism.

Question 3

P1b

Answer 3

-The socialist support for trade unions is a clear manifestation of collectivist principles in action, seen as essential for empowering workers collectively, allowing them to negotiate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and other benefits more effectively than they could as individuals.
- Luxemburg emphasised the role of trade unionism where the working class would become increasingly aware of their collective power and the inherent injustices of the capitalist system. This was crucial in rallying the working class towards revolution and the overthrow of the bourgeoisie.

Question 4

P1c