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Social Democracy - Pluralism Essay

Decent Essays

Social Democracy

Pluralism

By definition - A system of government that allows and encourages public participation, particularly through the activities of pressure groups seeking to influence the government.

Traditional socialism has always been associated with an analysis of society that class differences are crucial, in particular the middle classes - those who have gained to the working classes expense - summarised, the two classes interests are in conflict. Social democrats believe society is far more complex than a class interest struggle, and this concept becomes outdated in a pluralist society - a community of individuals and varied interests.

Traditional Socialism is arguably …show more content…

(E.g. A flourishing state run education system should not preclude private education system existence but merely run alongside each other to provided excellence and choice for education.)

New Right conservatives = monetarism - laissez faire - little involvement as possible - neo liberalism

Traditional Socialists = Keynesian economics - cause to intervene in economy - ensuring stability and enhancing personal liberty.

Prefer these economic management strategies. Social democrats reject such a dogmatic approach - need for a pragmatic pluralist approach to economic policy.

It was a member of the Labour Party in 50/60's who suggested economic state control. He ascertained that a pluralist approach to ownership and means of production would be suitable. For example some enterprises are ideal for public ownership but some are necessary for state rule etc. Therefore there should be a mixed economy, with ownership distributed according to circumstances.

Individualism =============

Essentially socialism is a doctrine of collectivism - goals are better achieved by combined effort. Social democracy places greater emphasis on individual endeavour. In SD, Collectivism only serves the purpose of improving opportunities and choices for individuals.

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