I support a social democratic form of government and have even benefited from such a system. Chances are, so have you.
There seems to be a lot of confusion around democratic socialism. Simply put, it is a government that ensures equal representation for all; one that prioritizes the people above special interests and profit. It is not communism. It is not the government take-over of private businesses. Democratic socialism retains a capitalist system, but one that is well-regulated and fair.
Many Americans view socialism with suspicion while not even realizing how much they have gained from its existence. The United States does not benefit from a fully democratic socialist government, like many prosperous nations (e.g, Finland, Sweden, and Norway); however, we do have many examples of socialism in our country.
It is important to note that socialist programs provide essential services that contribute to the quality of life, health and safety of its residents. In many cases, socialist programs are implemented where there is no free-market solution. If you have traveled on roads or highways or traversed a bridge, you have benefited from socialism. There is little profit in managing our massive transportation system. Therefore, the government, through fees and taxes, makes it possible for Americans to travel freely and safely across the country.
Communities usually take a socialist approach toward improving the quality of life for its residents. If you have borrowed a book from a library; visited a museum or historical marker; traveled to a local, state or nation park or relied on public amenities such as street lights, water/sewer systems, and emergency services — you have benefited from socialism.
Socialism has been used to support those who have limited resources. Programs such as Social Security and Medicare were established decades ago to ensure that senior citizens have income and access to healthcare. Medicaid, food stamps, WIC and other assistance programs are intended to provide basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare to American when at their most vulnerable.
Unemployment insurance imposes a small tax on employers and employees to provide temporary income for those who are out of work. It is a social safety net especially for non-unionized workers who may not have job security and can be fired at will.
Most Americans have participated in one of the oldest forms of American socialism: public education. Since the 17th century, our leaders have recognized the benefits of an educated populace. Today, over 50 million students are taught annually through public elementary and secondary schools. Since the average education costs between $10,000 and $14,000 per child, per year, most parents would not have the means to afford such a vital opportunity for their children.
The U.S. Postal Service, founded in 1775, is a socialist system that has benefited every single American at some point in his or her life. A 49-cent stamp allows anyone to send a letter across town or clear across the country.
The U.S. military is not only America’s, but the world’s, largest and most expensive socialist program. The military serves to protect Americans from a variety of threats and dangers. U.S. taxpayers, sole supporters of the military’s budget, pay $57.52 million each hour to maintain the Department of Defense. This cost does not include veterans programs and VA hospitals, which are fully-socialized facilities, owned and managed by the government.
These and other types of socialism help and support Americans. Some work very well and efficiently while others may require more investment or improvement.
It would be useful, I believe, for our tax bills to itemize how our tax dollars are spent. Perhaps if Americans could see how much each of these services cost us individually and the overall benefits they provide to society, we would be more likely to embrace the ideals of socialism.
Finally, when you combine the best qualities of socialism (caring for society as a whole), the best of democracy (efficiency, transparency and fairness) and the best of capitalism (a well-regulated system with incentives to innovate) you are rewarded with a democratic socialist form of government that is advantageous for everyone, especially the average person.