Should socialism be the basis of the UK’s economic system?
The UK operates a mixed economy combining private enterprise, markets and substantial public spending at around 44% of GDP, including the NHS, state education and welfare. Prime Minister Andy Burnham promotes 'business-friendly socialism' involving greater public control over utilities and services while rejecting full nationalisation or tax-and-spend labels. Recent polls show socialism viewed favourably by 38% of Britons but capitalism remains more popular overall, with younger voters more open to socialist ideas.
49 Opinions
The wording of the question isn't great, but we clearly need a steer towards progressive policies that protect our economy against the predations of the richest 1%. Fair taxation to balance the books and to stop the strangulation of the NHS and welfare budgets.
Currently we have capitalism with too few controls, which Reform are trying to demolish further. So not rabid left socialism but more than we have now.
Socialism isn’t a dirty word, in fact the best Conservative politicians of the last 30 years have had some socialist view points. It may have taken many more years to happen but Capitalism is finally coming to an end too. Too many very wealthy people not enough competition and workers wages are squeezed to the bottom. A starting min wage salary is now £26k but many companies struggle to pay £35k to an experienced employee. Something has to give.
Considering capitalism has ruled in the UK for the vast majority of years since WW2, I'd suggest it's time to try something else. Simply because as I look at the UK today, I'd suggest it's not in the best place it's been for some considerable time
Can you name a socialist country that is successful??
Socialism always sounds good to young and immature people. Especially this generation which thinks work is hard and meaningless (it often is), houses are impossible to get (they are) and Universal Basic Income paid for by Elon Musk sounds great. It isn't going to be that easy.
Socialism never works anywhere.
Socialism is never the answer. It was tried and tested in the 50s, 60s and 70s and found to be wanting. Society need wealth creators to help support those in genuine need.
Yes but not unbridled socialism as might be understood by Communists. We need a kind society that respects all people, does not oppress them and looks after those that are unable to support themselves. It is not an automatic handouts but a society that rewards endeavour but accepts the cost of providing safety net. Society cannot rely on the altruism of the wealthy or their charity to do this informally hence it has to be run by the state.
Hell no, and we need to stop normalising far-left and far-right philosophy as the basis for political discussion. A capitalist-based economy that still prevents monopolies, says no to unnecessary wars, and provides a safety net for the most vulnerable in society is the balanced common sense approach we need.