Table of Contents
It has been claimed that the NHS has socialist principles, and represents an island of socialism in a capitalist sea. In short, the NHS is more correctly seen as nationalised rather than socialised medicine, achieving the first three levels of a socialist health service identified here.
Do we live in a capitalist country UK?
Under our current government we are definitely Capitalist. In England we have a Parliamentary democracy where we vote in parties. There are two major parties: Conservatives – As Capitalist as it gets over here.
Is socialism a free medicine?
No. Universal healthcare is not socialism. For decades developed capitalist countries around the world have had universal health care.
Is the UK a mix of capitalism and socialism?
It is not a mix of capitalism and socialism, it is a mix of private and state ownership. Like most civilized countries, the UK relies on socialist principles (in the broad sense of publicly funded services) for healthcare, infrastructure, police and fire protection, etc.
Without socialism communities throughout the United States would receive no aid when they are devastated by tornadoes, earthquakes, fires, floods, and hurricanes. Any state or national leader who withholds aid from these communities is not defending the country against socialism but rather is harming the common good.
Democracy is a system of government, it determines who is able to make decisions about the country. Socialism and democracy go hand in hand. Democracy is about spreading power to the people. Socialism is about sharing resources between the people. Great Britain is an island. The country is called the UK, and it includes Northern Ireland.
What are some common misconceptions about socialism in Great Britain?
Great Britain is an island. The country is called the UK, and it includes Northern Ireland. Now for your second misconception – Socialism is primarily an economic system. It involves decisions about ownership of goods and services, limitations of private wealth and the free market and it puts public wellbeing ahead of private profit.