Question map
Socialism is opposed to
Explanation
Socialism is a political and economic ideology that emerged as a critique of the inequalities generated by industrial capitalism [c1]. Its core principles include the minimization of economic inequality and the just distribution of resources [c1][t2]. Unlike capitalism, which relies on a free-market system where individuals are unrestrained and competition drives the market, socialism favors government regulation, planning, and collective ownership [c1][t3][t4]. Socialists argue that the unrestricted competition inherent in laissez-faire capitalism encourages selfishness and greed while leading to the exploitation of workers and unfair wealth distribution [t4][t10]. Therefore, socialism is fundamentally opposed to unrestricted competition, seeking instead to replace it with cooperation, social justice, and state or collective management of the means of production to ensure the welfare of the entire community [c2][t6][t8].
Sources
- [1] Political Theory, Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Equality > SOCIALISM > p. 44
- [2] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 9: Directive Principles of State Policy > Socialistic Principles > p. 109
- [3] https://kids.britannica.com/students/article/socialism/277112