(a) Explain the concept proletariat. (b) Highlight four features of socialism.

Explanation

(a) Proletariat is a socialist concept of exploited class/workers in a capitalist system. They do not own the mean of production but earn their living through wage labour.

(b) Features of Socialism are:

(i) State or government ownership and control of means of production, distribution and exchange.

(ii) Single party system, only one legally recognized political party is allowed to exist.

(iii) Goods are mainly produced to satisfy the needs of the people and not for profit.

(iv) There is equitable distribution of income. This is done according to contributions and needs of the citizens.

(v) Centralized planning: Socialist states operate a centrally planned economy.

(vi) Co-operation: All members of the society co-operate to sustain the economy.

(vii) Full employment of all able bodied citizens.

(viii) All factors of production are fully employed in order to produce goods and services.

(ix) Free social services e.g. education and healthy