- Argued that equality of opportunity was precluded by the inequalities existing between social classes.
- Marx & Engels argued that class was determined by economic system underpinning society.
- Capitalism and private property is hugely problematic.
- Co-operation and fraternity of which human nature is determined in socialism have been threatened by private property and capitalism which is said to encourage competitiveness, egotism and self-interest – what liberals believe not socialists.
- Capitalism generates huge inequalities of outcome, which is incompatible, with equality of opportunity, self-determination and social justice.
- Socialism asks for the redistribution of wealth – Benn “The Robin Hood of politics” – taking from the rich and then giving to the poor
Two
Broad Principles:
- Rejection of laissez-faire capitalism (advocated by neo-liberals and classical liberals). Market forces should not been given free rein by a State.
- Socialism: An economy with low taxation and little state interference will be one where unfairness and social injustice become exacerbated.
- Socialism demands greater collectivism. Focus needs to be on the needs of society as a whole rather than on the abilities of a few individuals as with economic liberalism.
Economic
Collectivism Forms:
- Progressive taxation whereby the state extracts wealth from its citizens by on a ‘sliding scale’ so that the richer classes contribute much more than the poorer classes.
- Progressive public spending using taxes in a way that enhances the less fortunate elements of society e.g benefits.
- Public services through tax to fund key public services e.g healthcare
- State regulation of capitalism designed to prevent exploitation by economy’s richer and more powerful elements e.g legal wage for employees, health and safety, maternity leave.
- State/Common ownership recommended when private enterprise is seen to fail parts of the economy with consequences for society.
Two
Benefits:
- Progressive taxation increased public spending, extensive public services and sometimes public ownership are seen as expressions of a fraternal and cooperative society with greater social justice.
- Collectivist policies are thought to make the economy more efficient.
- Marx & Engels spoke of how capitalism and markets were unpredictable causing mass unemployment.
- A collectivist economy will be more stable and manageable and more likely to provide the material resources society needs.