Lesson 2

1. Collectivism and Equality
L/Ob: to understand the key socialist
concepts of collectivism and equality
L/Ou: Definitions and explanations of
key terms, with examples...

2. Can human beings work together
effectively or are they too self
interested?

3. Collectivism — social basis of human
nature (common humanity)
1. ‘Nurture’ emphasised over ‘nature’
(implications for person/social development,
utopianism etc);
2. Co-operation (moral and economic benefits);
3. Collectivism in practice (statism, common
ownership, economic management,
welfarism).

4. Equality — socialist view of equality
(equality of outcome/reward, social
equality);
• Divisions over desirable extent of equality:
absolute versus relative social equality,
common ownership versus redistribution
• Arguments in favour of social equality:
social stability and cohesion,
social justice,
happiness and personal development
needs-based distribution.

5. Classwork/Homework
A) Read pages 82-85 in Mcnaughton textbook
Denis - Primitive
Ana – Utopian
Ana – Marxism
Rob – Revolutionary
Lizzy – Fabianism/evolutionary
Essential you understand the principles listed above.

6. Homework
A) Research 2 Co-ops from around the world.
B) E.G “The Co-op” in the UK
• How close are they to socialist principles?
• Why does it work/not work? (in your opinion)
• In what sense do socialists have a positive
view of human nature? (15 Marks)