Socialism

Socialist view of Human Nature

Naturally cooperative, altruistic, social.

Corrupted by capitalism (Marx, Engels), Can flourish in equality and community.

Socialist view of The State

Revolutionary: state is a tool of oppression (Marx) - must be overthrown. ›

Democratic: use state to reform capitalism (Webb).

Third Way: decentralised, community-based support (Giddens).

Socialist view of Society

Society is unequal due to class conflict (Marx).

Common ownership and cooperation should replace competition, Equality is key to freedom.

Socialist view of the Economy

Marxists: abolish capitalism, full collectivism.

Social democrats: mixed economy, tax & welfare (Crosland).

Third Way: accept capitalism but reform it (Giddens).

Marx & Engels

Class struggle, revolution-

Luxemburg

Spontaneous mass revolution

Webb

Gradual reform through state

Crosland

Social democracy + managed capitalism

Giddens

Third Way - market + social responsibility