A question...

[ernesto43]

I think It is a basic question, but I want to ask to you.. What is the aim of socialism? And Is socialism possible in demokratic republics ? (For example Turkey) What is the relation between socialism and democracy?? Are they different concepts?..Is democracy oppose to socialism? This question can be comic for you.. But I want to learn fundamental concepts...Thanks..

[Y Chwyldro Comiwnyddol Cymraeg]

Socialism is an umbarela term for a wide range of left-wing ideas. Many forms of socialism are acheivable through bourguoise republics, but most of us here think that that will never acheive an ultimate form of socialism. Most think that a revolution is needed to change the current state (democratic republics like Turkey) into socialist ones.

[Decolonize The Left]

I think It is a basic question, but I want to ask to you.. What is the aim of socialism? And Is socialism possible in demokratic republics ? (For example Turkey) What is the relation between socialism and democracy?? Are they different concepts?..Is democracy oppose to socialism? This question can be comic for you.. But I want to learn fundamental concepts...Thanks..

Thank you for posting your question, I will do my best to clarify these terms (there are many and may be confusing).

Democracy: A democracy is a form of government for, of and by the people.
Republic: A republic is a state in which the government is elected by the people through a system of representation.

Note: Democracy and republic are not synonymous. One cannot have a "democratic republic" as democracy cannot function with representation. The reason for this is simple: if the government is "of" the people, then the people cannot elect others to act for them.

Socialism: Socialism can be used in many different ways.
1) As an ideology: socialism is a theory which advocates possession of the means of production by the community as a whole.
2) As a stage in development: according to Marxist theory, after the crumble of capitalism, society will move into a transition stage of socialism before reaching communism. During this stage, workers will seize the means of production and the state will slowly wither away (until it is destroyed - and then you have communism).
3) As another word for welfare-capitalism: socialism has, in common language, become synonymous with welfare-capitalism. What we mean by this is states such as France, and Germany are called "socialist" due to their large welfare, social security, and free educational institutions, while at the same time they maintain a functioning capitalist economy.


What is the aim of socialism?

You will note that within the first definition you can find "the aim of socialism" (to answer your question).


And Is socialism possible in demokratic republics ? (For example Turkey)

Socialism is theoretically possible in "democratic republics" though it would be much easier in a non-representational governmental system.


What is the relation between socialism and democracy??

Socialism is an economic theory, democracy is a form of government. They are compatible, but not necessarily related.

I hope this helps. If you still have more questions, or require more clarification, please ask and I will again do my best.

- August