What is Socialism?
Socialism is a political idea or belief that a nation could be run by a government that will help free the working classes and help promote equality amongst all. A socialist government would control the social and economic systems and make sure to provide for all basic human needs. Socialism aims to provide for all citizens better than capitalist systems currently do. As a part of socialism, advocates claim that it will help increase industrial development, economic growth, offer full employment, reduce poverty, protect against social classing, increase literacy, give social rights for workers, culture, and provide better condition for women and minorities. (Smith, para 21) As opposed to a capitalist society, that is controlled by private business, socialist look to create an environment in which all people are taken care of. Several countries have had established socialist systems such as the Soviet Union, Poland, and North Korea.
Socialism Today
Today, ideas of socialism are still implemented in many countries governments. Some common socialist benefits that can be found in many governments are trade unions, generous welfare benefits, and nationalized health care. The United States has even adopted many socialist ideas like nationalized health care and welfare. A modern socialist government would not leave people out in the cold and care would be provided for all. France as well has many components of a contemporary socialistic government. Today, modern socialism is also referred to as Democratic Marxism. Karl Marx believed that a free capitalist society could not work and would inevitably crash. As we saw in 2008, there were many truths behind his once criticized words. Karl Marx believed that socialism as a path to Communism would be the best form of government that would right social injustices, give employment, and provide for all.
Sources
This article by Steven Erlanger explains socialism today in France and the United States. It gives a look at what traits can be found in modern socialism.
This article by David Smith helps explain what socialism is and the main goals of socialism.
The Marxist is a site that explains all of the ideas that Karl Marx had. There you can find is thought's on capitalism, socialism, and communism.