In this first session of our Theory Series in 2026, we ask “What Is Socialism?” to introduce attendees to DSA’s foundational commitment. We will consider the complicated history of the term, the core principles that unite its advocates, and its current status in contemporary American politics. This session will establish socialism’s opposition to capitalism and exploitation and its fundamental relationships to democracy, equality, and freedom in both politics and the economy. “But isn’t socialism authoritarian? Don’t socialists want to take away my belongings?” We’ll address these and other myths during discussion. We’ll also consider what distinguishes socialists from adherents of other political ideologies, including those who share many of our same concerns and goals.

Core Readings:

• "What is Democratic Socialism?" - Neal Meyer
• "Isn't America Already Kind of Socialist?" - Chris Maisano
• "Why We're Socialists, Not 'Progressives'" - Natasha Fernandez-Sibler

Additional Readings:

• “The Principles of Communism” - Friedrich Engels
• “Why Socialism?” - Albert Einstein