The word “socialism” has taken on new meaning as a catchword in current American politics. The columnist Froma Harrop calls for a better understanding of the word.

Some political candidates, Harrop says, are calling themselves socialists but “seem to have little idea of what socialism is. And most of the conservatives talking back to them don’t seem to know, either.” (“The silly debate about socialism,” The Seattle Times, 9 September 2018).

These new candidates, Harrop says, are not talking about taking away the means of production from capitalists. They are talking about using taxes to strengthen social safety nets.

The term “distribution of income” does not in itself mean the planned economy of the former Soviet Union. Older Americans have benefitted for years from social security and medicare. Well-functioning transportation systems, supported by government, are a boon to the economy.

Few Americans, those calling themselves socialist or not, want to end private ownership. This economic system works efficiently in the world of supply and demand of physical goods.

But a profit driven system works poorly for many Americans in areas like health and education.

Wealthy citizens can afford the healthcare and education their children need. But healthcare and education for all, not just the wealthy, ultimately benefit our capitalist system with healthy, educated workers.

Health and education, like transportation, work better when all have access to them.