This document introduces socialism as an alternative to capitalism. It argues that capitalism is an unjust, oppressive system that exploits workers for profit and leads to issues like racism, war, and global warming. While reforms have attempted to address its flaws, capitalism cannot be truly reformed and a new system is needed. Socialism is presented as this alternative, where the economy is brought under social control and ownership to prioritize meeting people's needs rather than profits. Some objections to socialism are addressed, but it maintains that the struggle for socialism is important despite challenges.

1. I.
An introduction to
socialism
What’s wrong with capitalism.
Why we can’t reform it.
Why we need socialism.

2. What is capitalism?
• Society’s means of
production privately
owned.
• System driven by
hunt for profit.
• Source of wealth is
the labour of
working people.
‘From the depths’ (USA, 1907)

3. An unjust, oppressive system
• Exploitation.
• Racism.
• Xenophobia.
• Sexism.
• Homophobia.

4. Imperialism & war
• Imperialism —most
highly developed
form of capitalism.
• Seeks to dominate
whole world.
• Permanent war drive
and militarism.
Top: Haiti; Bottom: Iraq, 2003

5. Global warming
• Most serious threat facing humanity.
• Caused by capitalism’s insatiable
thirst for profit.

6. A class-divided society
• Capitalist class.
• Working class.
• Middle classes.

7. How do 1% rule society?
• Ideology.
• Manufacturing
consent.
• Force and
repression.

8. What is the state?
• Ultimate guardian
of class rule.
• What are the key
institutions of the
state?
• Where did it come
from?
• What is the
alternative?

9. Can capitalism be reformed?
• Reforms vs
reformism.
• Welfare state.
• Can there be a just &
humane capitalism?
• New system needed.

10. The socialist alternative
• Economy brought under social
ownership and control.
• Basis for profound social change.
‘Man at the crossroads’, Diego Rivera (1933)

11. Meeting people’s needs
• Capitalism: making
profits for rich is
sole aim.
• Socialism: meeting
people’s needs is
basic goal.
Cuba: neighbourhood clinic.

12. Objections to socialism
• It will never
happen.
• Human nature:
greed is innate.
• Will stifle
individuality.
• Modern economy
too complex to
plan.

13. Fight for socialism
• Things look
daunting but the
struggle will
decide.
• What each of us
does makes a
difference.
‘Emancipated woman, build up socialism’
(USSR, 1920s)