Syllabus: Socialism
Meaning
- Democratic Socialism combines a democratic political system with a socialist economic framework.
- It supports a mixed economy, where public and private sectors co-exist.
- It seeks to eradicate poverty, inequality and ignorance, blending ideas from Marxism and Gandhism.
Constitutional Basis
- The 42nd Constitutional Amendment added Socialist to the Preamble.
- Directive Principles of State Policy reflect socialist ideals by promoting welfare and social justice.
- Key Articles include:
- Art. 38: Social order ensuring welfare of people.
- Art. 39: Principles for equitable distribution of wealth.
- Art. 39A: Equal justice and free legal aid.
- Art. 41–42: Right to work, education, assistance, and humane work conditions.
- Art. 43–43A: Living wages and worker participation in industrial management.
- Art. 47: Duty to improve nutrition and living standards.
Core Principles
- Advocates gradual, reform-based change rather than revolution.
- Supports periodic elections, planning, and a strong parliamentary system.
- Views the state as an instrument of social justice.
- Opposes class struggle; believes in reconciling divergent social interests.
- Rejects strict economic determinism; promotes nationalism and religious freedom.
Methods
- Non-Violence & Gradualism
- Emphasises peaceful transformation and step-by-step reforms.
- People must be socially and mentally prepared for socialism.
- Economic Planning
- Uses planned production and distribution to reduce inequality.
- Corrects distortions of unregulated capitalism through scientific planning.
- People’s Participation
- Ensures public involvement at all planning levels through schemes, projects and decentralisation.
Criticism
- Marxists argue it dilutes revolutionary Marxism and cannot reform capitalism.
- Liberals claim it restricts individual liberty and expands state control.
- Excessive reliance on planning may stifle initiative and efficiency.
Judicial Support
- Samantha v. State of Andhra Pradesh: Socialism linked to egalitarian order and rule of law (basic structure).
- S.R. Chaudhari v. State of Punjab: Constitutional interpretation must uphold democratic spirit and objectives.
Conclusion
- Democratic Socialism envisions a society balancing economic equity, democracy and social welfare.
- Despite challenges of bureaucracy and efficiency, global examples show its potential to ensure high living standards within a democratic framework.