3.1.10 Response: Democratic Socialism





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Democratic Socialism, as distinct from Marxism or communism,  became popular in Great Britain and parts of Western Europe at the end of the Industrial Revolution. Developed from utopian socialist principles, it promised to deal with the injustices and inequalities experienced by many under laissez faire capitalism. Because it believes in a practical form of curbing the excesses of classical liberal economics, democratic socialism remains a viable ideology in Europe today.

This type of socialism believes in democracy, or representative government, and places itself to the left of liberalism on the ideological spectrum. Socialists desire greater economic equality, including rights for the working person, laws to protect workers, health services, education, and controls over the economy.
Around the world, many different political parties reflect the values of democratic socialism. The Labour Party in Great Britain was one such party. In Canada, democratic socialism was the ideology of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation, or CCF. The CCF encouraged Canada to adopt federal health care and other programs to benefit all Canadians. Today's version of the CCF in Canada is the New Democratic Party.


What's the difference between Marxism and Socialism?

Marxism
  • Believes revolution is needed to overthrow liberal society.
  • Abolish private property.
  • Total government control of the economy.



Socialism
  • Gradual and peaceful change can occur under elected governments.
  • Private property is still allowed, but some property is placed in public (government by the people) hands.
  • Some control over economy including regulations and ownership of key industries (for example, the postal system)

"Communism vs. Socialism: What's The Difference?"- NowThis World, You-tube 

 

 


Read "The Voice of Moderate Socialism" on page 138 of your text, Perspectives on Ideology.

As you read, take notes on the following:
  • Is democratic socialism a complete rejection of classical liberalism, or an extension of greater freedoms for all?


Need help completing the task below?  How to Read a Picture.

Look closely at the details in the poster below. Use your historical knowledge to help you interpret the message.




  1. What dominates this image?
  2. Who do you see in the image?
  3. Where did this occur?
  4. When did it occur?
  5. Why was this image created?
  6. What is the main idea in the source?
  7. What ideological perspective is shown?
  8. How is the source connected to liberalism?
  9. Does the source primarily support or reject the principles of liberalism?
  10. Does this image represent socialism as Marx described it, or does it reflect democratic socialism in a liberal democracy?
  11. Why is the man holding a quill pen and a piece of parchment?
  12. What does the building in the background in the upper left represent?

Editorial Cartoon of Charles Edward Russell by Art Ward, 1912. http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/USArussellCE.htm, Public Domain.