(a) Explain the concept proletariat. (b) Highlight four features of socialism.

Answer Details

(a) The concept of proletariat

The proletariat is a term made popular by Karl Marx to describe the working class in a capitalist society, that is, the mass of people who own no means of production (no land, factories or capital) and who therefore survive by selling their labour to the owners of capital (the bourgeoisie) in exchange for wages. They are the exploited class whose surplus labour, according to Marx, creates the profit enjoyed by the capitalist class. Marx predicted that the proletariat would eventually become conscious of their oppression, unite and overthrow the bourgeoisie in a revolution, leading to a classless, socialist society.

(b) Four features of socialism

1. Collective or public ownership of the means of production: Land, factories, industries and other major resources are owned and controlled by the state or the community on behalf of all, not by private individuals.
2. Central economic planning: Production, distribution and prices are directed by the state through a planned economy rather than by the free play of market forces.
3. Equitable distribution of wealth: Socialism aims at reducing inequality, sharing wealth fairly and providing for the basic needs of all citizens according to the principle of social justice.
4. Emphasis on social welfare and the common good: The state provides essential services such as education, health and housing free or at low cost, placing collective welfare above private profit.
5. Classless society: Socialism seeks to abolish exploitation and the class distinctions between the rich and the poor.