Socialism

Socialism calls for the public rather than private ownership of the ‘means of production’. This is based on the belief that everyone who contributes to the production of a good, is entitled to a share in it. Therefore, society as a whole should own, or at least control property for the benefit of all.

It has been said there are as many theories of socialism as there are socialists. As a result of the failings of soviet style ‘state socialism’, modern socialists often use the term ‘democratic socialism’ to promote advocacy of their cause.

However more of that basic explanation of socialism often helps to garner wider appeal. Consequently, Bernie Sanders has defined democratic socialism as “the understanding that all of our people live in security and dignity” and “a government and an economy and a society which works for all.” In addition, Ocasio-Cortez defines it as “democratic participation in our economic dignity.”

Socialism vs Capitalism

Socialism is crucial for the health, happiness and survival of the human species. Therefore the modern political struggle is the struggle between capital and labour. Consequently, this manifests in the ideological struggle between Capitalism and Socialism. Capitalism had existed for a number of centuries. However the Industrial revolution of the 18^th century saw Capitalism grow at an unprecedented rate. However, the poverty experienced by workers highlighted the stark contrast in the position of the classes. Meanwhile, the ruling class enjoyed unprecedented wealth.

Karl Marx

Karl Marx (1818 – 1883) called for all those who contribute to the production process, to share in the profit created. He said the ‘means of production’ must be owned by society as- a-whole.

Capitalism Wreaks Destruction

Capitalism is predicated on continuous growth. Consequently, all available resources are consumed in the name of profit. This ideology is unsustainable. However, capitalist forces continue to expand production. They do this despite the ecological cost. Unless capitalism is defeated, it will result in the continued destruction of the natural world. This endangers the survival of many species of life, including humanity. Climate change and its calamitous consequences highlight this in an unprecedented way.

Late Stage Capitalism

Environmental destruction, war and the collapsing vote of centrist ‘liberal’ parties are all evidence of late-stage capitalism. As capitalism comes to pass, our only hope is for a socialist future.

Socialism is a political theory that offers workers and the poor hope. Hence, we share socialist stories and resources here. For example, we look at how public services help the poor by providing them with the necessities of life. We examine people’s entitlement to welfare.  We take the side of Karl Marx in the continuing battle against capitalism.

Building Socialism

Socialism is about working together to build a better world. Building a socialist alternative includes being involved in political movements and organisations. This can include everything from supporting campaigns for public housing to being involved in your local trade union. All done from a socialist perspective.

From our perspective, the socialist struggle should include being engaged in the electoral process. Of course, the dice will always be stacked against us, with big capital supporting Conservative mainstream parties. However, part of our community activism and movement building must include politics. Indeed many of us argue that electoral politics is crucial to educate our community and grow our movement.

Champion of the Underdog