Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Recently, one of your contributors explained their understanding of the many benefits of “democratic socialism” (“Democratic Socialism: Maligned and misunderstood,” Oct. 1 Readers Write).

I understand that definitions are always changing. As an older person, my public school education taught me that socialism was/is: Any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods. 2. a: A system or society or group living in which there is no private property. b: A system or condition of society in which the means of production are owned and controlled by the state. 3: A stage of society in Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done.

Likewise, the definition of social democracy was/is: a political movement advocating a gradual and peaceful transition from capitalism to socialism by democratic means.

As informed citizens, we must make the votes and decisions that are required to secure our future. Understand the consequences of letting more government into your life and remember what your public school teacher taught in the 1950s versus today.

Michael W. Hedrick

Ark, Va.