Socialist: meaning, definitions and examples

Duplicated from the first entry.

This word refers to someone who supports or believes in communism, a political and economic ideology that aims for a classless society where all property is owned communally. It can have negative connotations due to historical associations with totalitarian regimes.

• During the Cold War, many in the West viewed communists with suspicion
• She wrote an article comparing the policies of communist and capitalist governments

This term is often used in political contexts to describe someone who holds progressive or liberal views and supports changes toward more equality and social welfare. It is less specific than 'socialist' or 'communist' and can refer to a range of left-leaning beliefs.

• Left-wingers are promoting policies to reduce income inequality
• She is a left-winger advocating for more environmental regulations

This word describes someone who advocates for social reform and progressive changes, especially in areas like civil rights, healthcare, and education. It is often used in contemporary political discussions.

• Progressives are pushing for comprehensive healthcare reform
• The progressive candidate focused on increasing funding for public education

This term is used to describe someone who believes in equal rights and opportunities for all people. It is often used in discussions about social justice, gender equality, and other civil rights issues.

• The organization promotes an egalitarian society where everyone has the same opportunities
• He spoke about his egalitarian views at the conference, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of all individuals

Appropriate when discussing political or economic systems that advocate for collective ownership and democratic control of resources and production.

• She identifies as a socialist and supports policies that promote public ownership of major industries.
• The new party manifesto leaned towards socialist ideals with a focus on social equality and community welfare.

Used to describe a specific ideological and political framework where there is a classless society, often associated with the teachings of Karl Marx and the political systems of countries like the former Soviet Union.

• The country's government claims to follow a communist model, prioritizing state control over all aspects of the economy.
• Critics of the reform argued it was a move towards communist principles, reducing individual economic freedoms.

A general term used in political contexts to describe groups, policies, or individuals that support social equality, welfare programs, and progressive reforms.

• He is a left-wing politician known for advocating for stronger social safety nets and labor rights.
• The debate featured strong left-wing arguments in favor of increasing the minimum wage.

Refers to favoring or advocating for reforms or innovative political changes aimed at improving society, often through embracing new ideas and social advancements.

• The candidate's progressive stance on climate change earned her the support of many young voters.
• They formed a progressive coalition to push for comprehensive healthcare reform.

Best chosen when referring to a belief in human equality, especially in terms of social, political, and economic rights and opportunities.

• The organization promotes an egalitarian philosophy, ensuring everyone has the same opportunities regardless of background.
• Her egalitarian views influenced her work on education reform, aiming to provide equal access to quality schooling for all children.