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As we have been approaching another election in America, one of the big words in the political verbiage is 'socialism'. Here is an imaginary dialogue.
Person X tells me that they are against socialism.
I ask them, "Can you define 'socialism' for me?"
They respond, "No. I guess I can't define the word 'socialism'."
"So," I say, "you don't know what 'socialism' is?"
They say, "No."
My response to them is, "Don't you think it's irrational to be against something that you don't understand?"
Stressing the need to understand what we are for or against is not an argument for what we are for or against.
The rule in logic is: First, understand. Then, evaluate.
So, here we go!
Here's one definition of 'socialism' I find clarifying. Socialism is "a system based on collective or government ownership of goods and services, as opposed to private ownership or markets." (From Wall Street Journal columnist Kimberley Strassel, "The Rise of Democratic Socialism.")
Strassel adds, "It's animated by class warfare, the claim that the "workers" in a society are kept down and exploited by wealthy, powerful forces, and that only the forced seizure and redistribution of capital will produce a more egalitarian and just society."
Remember. We begin by working to understand that which we think we are for or against.* Strassel, e.g., is not for democratic socialism. But note two things.
1. She takes pains to define 'democratic socialism'. Hence, she knows what she is arguing against.
2. She is historically familiar with the various permutations of the term 'socialism'. Like Christianity has various denominations, socialism does as well. Hence, democratic socialism.
One book that has helped me clarify my understanding is Socialism: A Very Short Introduction.
*For example, Christians who say "I believe in the gospel" should be able to explain the gospel is. Right?
