I.What’s wrong with capitalism.

Why we can’t reform it.Why we need socialism.

An introduction to socialism

What is capitalism?• Society’s means of

production privately owned.

• System driven by hunt for profit.

• Source of wealth is the labour of working people.

‘From the depths’ (USA, 1907)

An unjust, oppressive system

• Exploitation.• Racism.• Xenophobia.• Sexism.• Homophobia.

Imperialism & war• Imperialism — most

highly developed form of capitalism.

• Seeks to dominate whole world.

• Permanent war drive and militarism.

Top: Haiti; Bottom: Iraq, 2003

Global warming

• Most serious threat facing humanity.• Caused by capitalism’s insatiable

thirst for profit.

A class-divided society

• Capitalist class.• Working class.• Middle classes.

How do 1% rule society?

• Ideology.• Manufacturing

consent.• Force and

repression.

What is the state?• Ultimate guardian

of class rule.• What are the key

institutions of the state?

• Where did it come from?

• What is the alternative?

Can capitalism be reformed?• Reforms vs

reformism.• Welfare state.• Can there be a just &

humane capitalism?• New system needed.

The socialist alternative• Economy brought under social

ownership and control.• Basis for profound social change.

‘Man at the crossroads’, Diego Rivera (1933)

Meeting people’s needs• Capitalism: making

profits for rich is sole aim.

• Socialism: meeting people’s needs is basic goal.

Cuba: neighbourhood clinic.

Objections to socialism

• It will never happen.

• Human nature: greed is innate.

• Will stifle individuality.

• Modern economy too complex to plan.

Fight for socialism• Things look

daunting but the struggle will decide.

• What each of us does makes a difference.

‘Emancipated woman, build up socialism’(USSR, 1920s)