Study finds younger Oregonians favor socialism

(OCTOBER 17, 2019) The United States is known as a capitalist country. Capitalism refers to a type of economy. In capitalism, property and businesses are owned by individuals, not by the government.

A recent survey, however, suggests that young people in Oregon seem to favor socialism more than capitalism. Socialism is another type of economy. In socialism, most important industries (such as health care) are controlled by the government, not by individuals or private companies.

DHM Research conducted the online survey of 400 Oregonians ages 18-34. The results show that 29% identified as capitalist while 30% identified as socialist. A majority of 41%, however, chose neither or said they were unsure.

The authors of the report suggest several reasons. First, there are many popular politicians who support at least some parts of socialism. Also, the authors suggest that some young people like to be different, so they choose socialism as a way of being different from their parents. The authors also suggest that many younger Americans are unhappy with the current social and economic situation; they want to change the things they do not like about capitalism.

The survey also asked younger Oregonians if they have positive or negative views. Interestingly, both socialism and capitalism are viewed more negatively than positively:

• Socialism:
  • positive 42%
  • negative 43%
• Capitalism:
  • positive 34%
  • negative 43%

Other observations:

• A plurality (the highest number of responses, but less than the majority) believe that socialism would be better for themselves and for America.
• People with higher incomes usually favored capitalism.
• People of color strongly prefer socialism for addressing social issues.
• Republicans are positive toward capitalism, while Democrats are positive toward socialism.