Socialism 9 markers

Question 1

Explain and analyse three ways in which socialist thinkers have viewed the concept of equality.

Answer 1

1. Socialists view equality as achievable through ensuring equality of outcome
   E.g. Karl Marx argued that collective ownership is the best way to ensure absolute equality as capitalists could not be trusted to abide by regulations
   (the only way to ensure equality)
2. Socialist thinkers have pursued equality through progressive taxation.
   E.g. Anthony Crosland believed that progressive taxation would allow for an increase in public spending and redistribution of wealth
   (this would prevent inequality)
3. Socialists have differed in terms of their methods by which to achieve equality
   E.g. Lenin supported violent revolution, which was evident when he seized power in Russia in 1917 and then carried out wealth redistribution. In contrast, democratic socialists believe that equality can be realised by gradually reforming capitalism. For example, through the nationalisation of healthcare by Clement Atlee in 1948
   (in order to ensure equal access to healthcare)

Question 2

Explain and analyse three ways in which different socialist thinkers have viewed capitalism.

Answer 2

1. Revolutionary socialists have a very negative view of capitalism
   E.g. Karl Marx believed that capitalism is corrupt, inefficient and ultimately self-destructive
   (thus should be replaced by an economy based on collective ownership)
2. Social democrats believe that capitalism can be civilised through state intervention
   E.g. Anthony Crosland believes argues a mixed economy, based on public ownership and Keynesian economics is favourable
   (allowing greater public spending and therefore greater equality)
3. Third way thinkers seek an accommodation with capitalism
   E.g. Giddens believed that a neo-liberal economy based on privatisation and deregulation is favourable
   (providing huge tax yields to finance public spending and ensure equality)