Socialism or Capitalism

Only 53% of American adults believe capitalism is better than socialism according to a new survey.  Although the survey did not seek to define what socialism is the latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that 20% disagree and say socialism is better.

Young people under 30 are even more attracted to the idea of socialism, with 37% prefer capitalism and 33% socialism, with 30% are undecided.   Those who say they backed the Democrats are much more closely divided: Just 39% say capitalism is better while 30% prefer socialism.

The survey also found that two-out-of-three Americans believe that big government and big business often work together in ways that hurt consumers and investors.  In the supposed citadel of support for the so-called free market the impact of the recession is clearly undermining support for the capitalist market.  The right-wing republican criticisms who have attacked Obama’s bail-outs and stimulus plans as being “socialist” may also be having an effect.

What is clear is that many US workers and young people are searching for an alternative. For more on socialism in the US visit the CWI’s US section at www.socialistalternative.org