Socialism
/ˈsoʊ.ʃəˌlɪ.zəm/noun
A political and economic system in which the means of production are owned or controlled collectively or by the state.
Did you know?Socialism comes from French socialisme in the early 19th century, built on Latin socius, meaning a companion or ally, so its deepest root is about being bound together, not just politics.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sekw-
“To follow, accompany”
Latin
Latin
socius
“Companion, ally, associate”
Late Latin
Latin
socialis
“Of companionship, allied, connected with others”
18th-19th Century
French
socialisme
“A doctrine emphasizing social organization and collective welfare”
19th Century
English
socialism
“The political doctrine advocating collective or public ownership and control of production”