Socialism
Socialism is a socioeconomic belief that stresses the importance of communal involvement in property and wealth distribution. This guide explains the history of socialism from political and economic standpoints. You’ll learn about various socialist philosophies, and read arguments both for and against the ideology. Also find links to contemporary socialist organizations, and read news articles and essays written by today’s socialist media.
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Email ThisHistory of Socialism
Socialism emerged in conjunction with the Industrial Revolution as a means of protecting worker’s rights. As the 19th and 20th centuries progressed, socialism remained a popular and effective form of government worldwide. The sites below outline the theories that gave rise to socialism, highlighting the major events and figures throughout its history.
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- There are many forms of socialism. Visit Merriam-Webster for concise definitions of socialism and its specific types.
- Socialism and communism have similar origins and philosophies. The writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels are central to both systems. Visit the findingDulcinea Communism Web Guide for more historical information on the development of socialism.
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PBS
outlines the history and theories of socialism in its “Heaven on Earth” series. Visit the timeline for an overview of major events and leaders who defined socialism from its origins in 1799. Go to “Leaders and Thinkers” for complete biographies of influential socialist leaders.
The Internet Modern History Sourcebook
presented by Fordham University offers primary source information on the development of socialist theory. The articles and essays chronicle socialist theorists throughout the movement, including reflections on “Marxism,” “Socialist Culture,” “Trade Unionism” and more.
Marxists Internet Archive
provides complete works by Marx and Engels, founders of socialist theory. The site’s “History of the International Workingmen’s Association” includes primary documents outlining the development of socialism, including speeches, essays and letters. Scroll down to use the advanced search box at the bottom of the page to locate specific documents.
Spartacus Educational
provides a table with biographies of major socialist leaders and directories to socialist groups and media. Categories include “Socialist Writers and Philosophers,” “Political Organizations” and more.
Perspectives on Socialism Today
Socialist ideology runs contrary to capitalism, which governs the American socioeconomic system. Nevertheless, there are still significant arguments made in favor of socialist ideals. The following resources outline arguments made both for and against socialist platforms. You’ll find essays and articles published by socialist organizations and pro-capitalist groups.
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- The Ludwig von Mises Institute offers many articles and essays written on historical and contemporary issues in socialism. Browse the site for a wealth of articles analyzing socialist platforms.
- When you research a political ideology, be sure to check your source. Go to the “About Us” page of any Web site that discusses socialism to determine the bias of the writing.
- Albert Einstein once argued in favor of socialism. Read his essay, “Why Socialism?” published in the Monthly Review (May 1949).
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For pro-socialist opinion…
Socialism.com
publishes articles and discussions in favor of socialism. This speech, delivered at a socialist convention in 2002 by feminist author Megan Cornish, defines socialism and its major principles, and describes how they can be implemented in contemporary society.
The International Socialist Organization (ISO)
hosts a “What We Stand For” page, outlining contemporary socialist philosophy. Scroll down for a series of suggested articles that explain the ISO’s case for socialism.
For anti-socialist opinion…
The Library of Economics and Liberty
publishes a number of essays on socialism and economics including this article. The discussion outlines the economic theory and origins of the movement, and explains the problems that emerge in implementing socialist principles, especially in Western society.
The Ashbrook Center
offers an article titled, “Socialism vs. Capitalism: Which is the Moral System?” by C. Bradley Thompson. Thompson explores the distinctions between the two ideologies, arguing that capitalism is the more effective and humane form of governance. The Ashbrook Center is a conservative organization seeking to promote the benefits of capitalism through education.
Current Socialist Organizations
Even though socialism reached its zenith of popularity in the 20th century, many groups and political leaders continue to promote its ideals. Use the Web resources below to find organizations that seek to foster socialism in America and worldwide.
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- Because the degree of socialism varies from country to country and is constantly evolving, we have not included a complete list of socialist countries in this Web guide. To find out whether a country is considered socialist by the U.S. government, visit the CIA World Factbook and scroll to the “Government” section in any country profile.
- Although these Web sites have a pro-socialist bias and explore socialism from an idealistic perspective, they can be useful in understanding the historical popularity of socialism in its most idealized form.
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Socialist International
is an international organization that brings together “social democratic, socialist and labour parties,” uniting more than 150 international political parties and organizations. View the interactive map of member parties to see where they are located around the world.
Socialist Action
is an American group that works for labor, anti-war and human rights movements, among others. Visit “socialism 101” to see how the group addresses its socialist agenda. The site makes it easy to join the movement and recommends further reading on socialism, including political novels.
Contemporary Socialist Media
Although the organizations mentioned above provide articles and news detailing national and international issues relevant to socialism, there are also a number of media sources and journals that analyze and communicate socialist news and information specifically. Below are links to media sources that focus on socialist ideas as they apply to current events.
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- If you’re curious about the political effects of contemporary socialism, go to your favorite news publication and enter “socialism” in the search box. You’ll find a list of the most recent articles featuring socialist themes. The best places to look are international publications.
- Academic journals are also a great source of news and information on socialism. For example, Critique, a journal published by Glasgow University, includes academic essays and articles that explore contemporary socialist issues.
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International Socialism
is a quarterly journal that analyzes socialist theory as it applies to contemporary issues and events. View contents from the latest issue, or scroll down the right side to “From our archives” for articles that provide an historic look at socialist analysis.
Socialist Viewpoint
is a socialist publication that exposes the evils of capitalism and war. The tone of the publication is impassioned and the content is encompassing, covering several themes and topics related to each area of the world. Socialist Viewpoint is published every two months.
Socialist Party
, based in London, offers news and headlines that argue for socialist causes. In addition to publishing articles, the group works to further socialist efforts through organization and action. See the “Socialist news and views” section for major headlines and the socialist response to them. Visit “Socialist Party campaigns” to read about socialists at work.
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