A key principle of the socialist system of government is the ___________.

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a key principle of socialism as a system of government and economy.

Step 2: Explain the concept Socialism is an ideology in which the means of production, distribution and exchange are owned or controlled by the community or the state. The aim is to reduce inequality and ensure fair distribution of wealth. Its core principles include:

• Public or collective ownership of the major means of production
• State planning and control of the economy
• Equality and social welfare, meaning wealth is shared more fairly
• Provision of essential services (health, education) for all

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Minimal government intervention in the economy. This describes capitalism or laissez-faire, not socialism. Socialism involves heavy state involvement. ❌
• B. Private ownership of the means of production. This is the hallmark of capitalism. Socialism favours public or collective ownership. ❌
• C. Power concentrated in the hands of a few elite individuals. This describes oligarchy or aristocracy, not socialism. ❌
• D. Equality of opportunity and outcome. Socialism stresses reducing class differences and distributing wealth fairly, so that everyone benefits. This fits best. ✅

Step 4: Answer Note that "equality of outcome" is a simplification, since socialists mostly aim at reduced inequality, but among the options this is clearly the only one that matches socialism.

Exam tip: Match each ideology to its keyword:

• Capitalism → private ownership, free market, minimal state
• Socialism → public ownership, equality, welfare
• Communism → classless, stateless society
• Feudalism/Oligarchy → power in a few hands

If an option says "private ownership" or "minimal government," eliminate it immediately for socialism.