What is socialism?
Socialism is the idea that society, rather than private owners, should own or control the main parts of the economy. Socialists also want wealth shared more equally. Versions range from full state ownership to democratic socialism, which works through elections, public services and strong workers' rights.
Socialism grew in the nineteenth century as a response to the harsh conditions of early industrial capitalism. Thinkers argued that workers produced the wealth but owners took the profits. Some, like Marx, predicted revolution. Others, like the Fabians in Britain, believed change could come gradually through Parliament. Socialist ideas spread through trade unions, cooperatives and new workers' parties across Europe. Many argued that the vote alone was not enough without economic power for working people.
In the UK, democratic socialism shaped the Labour Party. The 1945 government created the NHS, built council housing and took coal, rail, steel and power into public ownership. The party kept a commitment to common ownership in its constitution until 1995. Later Labour governments moved away from wide public ownership, focusing instead on public services and a mixed economy.
Socialists today often call for public ownership of utilities and rail, higher taxes on wealth, stronger trade unions and well-funded public services. Critics point to the economic failures and lack of freedom in communist states, and argue that markets allocate resources better. Supporters reply that the Nordic countries show high taxes and strong welfare can sit alongside a successful economy.
Where you've seen it
The 1945 to 1951 Labour government's nationalisations and creation of the NHS, Nordic co-operative traditions, and many trade union movements.
In the UK today
You see it in support for public ownership of rail, water or energy, defending the NHS as a public service, and in parts of the Labour Party, the Greens and the trade unions.
Socialists see it as the route to a fairer society where basic needs come before profit and workers have real power.
Critics on the right see it as a threat to freedom and enterprise that blunts incentives and gives too much power to the state.
Britain is split. Now you decide.
Take WeDecide's party match quiz to see how socialist your instincts are, then try running the country that way for a full term.
Play WeDecide freeCommon questions
What is the difference between socialism and communism?
Communism aims for a classless society with no private property. Most socialists accept a mixed economy and seek change through elections.
Is the NHS socialist?
It was created by a Labour government on socialist principles, as care free at the point of use funded by taxes.
What is democratic socialism?
It seeks socialist goals through elections and democratic institutions rather than revolution.
What do socialists broadly want to control the main parts of the economy?
Society rather than private owners. Socialism wants society, rather than private owners, to control the main parts of the economy and reduce inequality.
Which UK government is linked to big nationalisations and creating the NHS?
The 1945 to 1951 Labour government. The 1945 to 1951 Labour government nationalised industries and created the NHS.