Socialism: Principles Flashcards
What is collectivism?
Achieving objectives through collective action with societal change requiring group effort
What is meant by common humanity in socialism?
Humans are social creatures
seek cooperation/socability/rationality
Cooperative efforts are superior to capitalistic competition => better for society
What is the most important value of socialism?
EQUALITY
What are the two principles of equality in socialism?
Equality of outcome
-> equal distribution of rewards
Egalitarianism
->removal of inequality and provide a fair chance for everyone
What do revolutionary socialists seek in terms of equality?
ABSOLUTE EQUALITY
- Abolition of private property
- Common ownership
How do social democrats aim to achieve equality?
Through reforms of capitalism
Removal of absolute poverty
Increase of taxation to fund welfare
What is common ownership?
Sharing the means of production among the population to ensure equal participation and benefit
Oppose private property that encourages materialism and conflict
How does socialism view social class?
Explains societal divisions
Socialism aims to improve the quality of life for the WC
What is the Marxist view of social class?
Class is determined by economics
Bourgeoisie own means of production
Proletariat sell there labour
Conflict=> proletarian revolution
How do social democrats view social class differently from Marxists?
Seek to remove class distinctions through state intervention/welfare/wealth redistribution
Prefer peaceful reform over violent revolution
What is workers’ control in socialism?
Control of the state or industry
Reflects the importance of workers
Relies on the cooperative nature of humans to benefit society
