What is the difference between 'Socialism' and a 'Social Democracy'?

[Helen_BVI]

Hi there,

I read somewhere that Social Democracy was created by former socialists that where unhappy with the ways of traditional Historical Socialism. In other words, Social Democracy is a left-centered political ideology that was originated form more 'radical' Social ideas.

Since SD was 'created' it has changed and evolved into more 'modern' concepts of left wing thinking. Whereas traditional Socialism is based on the concept that a' truly' socialist society can only be achieved through class struggle and revolution. The so called new socialists believed in more moderate ways of achieving a socialist society. They supported the notion of a democratic welfare-state and a combination of elements of Capitalism and Socialism.

Some good examples of S.D countries are Sweden, Denmark and basically all Scandinavian Countries. Sweden has a highly educated population and is a very democratic State. Most of its populations belongs to the middle class and have access to the same education, universities and standard of living. Salaries in Sweden tend to fit within a certain range, so no one earns too much or too little. Although, since the 90's this has been changing rather fast, I think it is safe to say that Sweden is still one of the most equal countries in the world. There is a very good notion of gender equality - Matenity leave is granted to both parents which combined exceed 18 months. Also, holidays are very long in Sweden ( min. of 4 weeks! - I used to have 4 weeks as a newly graduate architect when I lived there. It was great!).

In South America, Brazil a example of o\ Nation that is its early stages of implementing SD. In the last 10 years, through SD Brazil's gov. has managed to improve wealth distribution through a series of Social welfare programs. They range from CCT - Conditional Cash Transfer, which is really get some of the tax money paid to the government transferred to the poorest through programs of social welfare to improvement of access to and quality of public Education. Programs for Higher Education for low income persons are also giving very good results, as more and more poor young students get to go to college and University.

The biggest program in Brazil,however, is known as BF - Bolsa Familia - or Family Grant/allowance - roughly translated. The BF program is aimed at poor families who fulfil the requirements set by the government. These families receive a cash allowance for each child in the family in school age. The family is, on the other hand, required to keep their kids in school and are responsible for ensuring their children take part in every mandatory health and vaccination programs run by the government. The aim of the BF is to ensure all children receive education and are healthy. It also helps poor families to provide for their kids, so they don't have drop school to seek work.

Since SD started in Brazil, 11 million families have been benefited. That's about 46 million people. As a result, poverty is being eliminated and Brazil's middle class is 64% of the country. 15% of Brazilians belong to the upper class, but over 20 % is still poor.

I hope this has helped you in anyways.