Intro to Marxism Socialism Socialism an ideology that

Intro to Marxism & Socialism

• Socialism – an ideology that believes collectivist values should be the foundation for political, economic and social life. • Socialism developed as a response to the inequality of laissez-faire capitalism, but is more collectivist than modern liberalism.

• Utopian socialism: – Charles Fourier, Robert Owen – Earliest beginnings of socialist thought – Attempted social experiments (on the community level) to address the problems of the Industrial Revolution. – Based on co-operation and group welfare – Favored peaceful change

Key Values of Socialism • Collective interest more important than individual interests • Collective responsibility – society (through actions of gov’t) needs to look after needs of citizens • Economic equality – even distribution of wealth in society • Public property – gov’t should own major industries and profits from publicly-owned business should be redistributed throughout society (social programs)

MARXISM • Karl Marx thought human history was a constant struggle between social classes. (rich vs. poor, etc. ) • Bourgeoisie – business owners • Proletariat – workers • Violent revolution led by workers was needed to overthrow capitalism • Abolition of private ownership • Nationalization (state ownership) of means of production • Free education and guarantees of work for all • Goal: creation of a classless society • In theory, the state itself would cease to exist