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Socialists: meaning, definitions and examples

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socialists

 

[ ˈsoʊʃəlɪsts ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

political ideology

Socialists are individuals who advocate for social ownership and democratic control of the means of production. They often emphasize the need for social welfare programs and equal distribution of wealth to reduce inequalities in society.

Synonyms

Marxist, communist, leftist, progressive

Examples of usage

  • Many socialists argue for universal healthcare.
  • The socialists organized a rally to promote workers' rights.
  • During the election, the candidates included several socialists.
  • Socialists believe that the government should play a crucial role in the economy.

Etymology

The term 'socialist' emerged in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'socialism' which first appeared in France in 1832. The roots of socialism can be traced back to the Enlightenment period, during which thinkers began to challenge the inequalities brought about by capitalism. Socialism as a movement took shape in response to the Industrial Revolution, which highlighted the stark disparities between the wealthy industrialists and the working class. Early socialists sought to address issues such as labor rights, social equity, and the distribution of wealth, paving the way for various socialist ideologies to develop, including Marxism, democratic socialism, and others. Over time, the term has evolved and incorporated various beliefs, but at its core, socialism remains centered on the idea of collective ownership and the welfare of the community.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,293, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.