We believe that the use of profitability as the overriding criterion for the production and distribution of goods and services usually leads to decisions which harm the public welfare. This is especially true where irreplaceable natural resources are concerned. In the 1930s America witnessed the spectacle of farmers plowing under crops because prices were not high enough, while children in nearby cities were starving. Today, we have thousands of construction workers out of jobs while there is an enormous need for new housing. The Extension Of Democracy From Politics To The Economy Socialists believe that in order for political democracy to work well in a post-industrial society, it must be complemented by economic democracy.
Socialists are also strong supporters of democratic planning in the economy and government.
Defense Of Civil Liberties Socialists regard civil liberties and political democracy as among the highest achievements of our society, however imperfectly they can be applied under capitalism. For Socialists, the defense of civil liberties and minority rights is not a tactical question, but a matter of fundamental principle.