Socialism - origins + human nature

Question 1

origins

Answer 1

 Grew out of the Enlightenment.
 Much in common with liberalism.
 During 19th century the term ‘socialism’ was fist applied; utopian socialists e.g. Charles Fourier
and Robert Owen offered a radical response to emerging problems of capitalism and industry.
 Fourier advocated independent communities based on communal ownership and production,
equal distribution of resources and culture of tolerance and permissiveness.
 Owen proposed ‘cooperative’ communities designed to promote shared ownership, responsibility and altruism.
 Only during 19th century socialist ideas began to be taken seriously when industrialisation quickened.
 In new industrial areas, little scope for individual autonomy and freedom – early socialists argued for a new approach where employment was much less individualistic and there was less autonomy in individual’s everyday lives.

Question 2

Human nature

Answer 2

 Optimistic view (progressive ideology).
 Individuals are naturally cooperative, generous and altruistic (whereas liberals think they are self-
serving).
 Naturally seek solidarity, fraternity and comradeship.
 Human nature is malleable or ‘plastic’ rather than permanently fixed and can be adjusted to fulfil
their true, fraternal potential.
 Socialists are optimistic about how human nature could be (liberal optimistic about how it is).