To what extent is socialism united in its view of human nature?

Introduction

Define - Socialism emerged in the 19th century in response to class divisions and economic inequalities brought about by the rise in capitalism. It is based on collectivism rather than individuals, co-operation and social equality, all whilst having the goals of abolishing the class divisions in society.

D - There has been debate surrounding whether different strands of socialism agree on human nature. The overwhelming socialist stance on human nature is that humans are naturally cooperative, rational, and seek fraternity

D - There are slight differences which are superficial, it is clear that within socialism there is significant agreement on human nature which is socially decided and is overall positive

Socialists and human inclination for co-operation

Socialist have an overwhelming view that human nature is positive and humans are rational social creatures. They don't naturally seek idependence and supremacy, but instead solidarity, fraternity and comradeship - opposite to the liberal view of independency and individualism

Evidence of agreement: Karl Marx is a revolutionary socialist who believed human were naturally altruistic and has been contamined by greed from capitalism. - he said humans are 'species-beings' who find fulfilment through collective Labour

Luxemburg believed in mass working class solidarity and spontaneous collective action to overthrow capitalism

- Later socialists, like Giddens, placed more emphasis on individual aspiration and opportunity, implying that self-interest remains an important driver of behaviour

Human nature and economic structure

Socialists agree that a change to the economic structure of society will lead to human nature returning to its natural state. Many revolutionary socialists, such as Marx and Luxemburg believe that capitalism needs to be overthrown so that society is benefitted - humans are malleable rather than permanently fixed at birth

Agreement : Marx believed capitalism is self destructive and will eventually be replaced by an economy based on collective ownership .

Webb - Chaotic capitalist economy will gradually be replaced by one which secures for workers the full fruits of their labour based upon common ownership of the means of production.

Disagreement: The Third Way (Giddens) argues that capitalism can be beneficial to human nature, economic rewards can be motivating and can be used for the common good if correctly married to core socialist beliefs of fraternity and cooperation

Human nature and equality

Social democrats such as Crosland share the same idea of classlessness with fundamentalist socialists (Marx). They believe that a society without a structured hierarchy would bring out the best in people because all persons are of equal worth

- Opportunities at the very least should be spread widely

- Fundamentalist socialist believe class is the most significant dividers of humans and class divisions must be established, according to fundamentalists in order for common humanity to be reached

- Anthony Crosland agreed saying "the indefensible differences of status and income that disfigure our society and humanity"