Reply #46: But what sort of socialism? I think a huge problem

[OnionPatch]

is that most centrist/independent types of people don't have a clue what we mean when we talk about "socialism". And, to be honest, I don't myself know how the majority of people here at this board describe "socialism" and I've been here a long time. This thread is a perfect example of how we don't even agree among ourselves what it is.

Unfortunately, most people I know see "socialism" as totalitarian government control of all goods and services. Do I want the govt. controlling the means of all production? I can clearly say "No!" However, I do think there are certain economic sectors that are too important to leave to the wolves of pure capitalism, such as energy, health care and education. Employee-owned businesses make a lot of sense in some instances. Regulation to protect and advance small (and I mean SMALL) businesses is another idea I like, but I would never want to see the right to trade our goods and services taken away.

The main point I'm trying to make is that when our side cries out "Socialism", I'm afraid we're only scaring most centrist people until we figure out what kind of socialism the majority of us would like to advance, educate people and put forth a clear plan.