---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: In socialism, private property is…"
description: "\"In socialism, private property is anathema, and equal distribution of income the first consideration. In capitalism, private property is cardinal, and ..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/53e/george-bernard-shaw-68_capitalism_in-socialism-private-property-is-anathem_1974344.png"
---

#  In socialism, private property is anathema, and equal…

![“In socialism, private property is anathema, and equal distribution of income the first consideration. In capitalism, private property is cardinal, and distribution left to ensue from the play of free contract and selfish interest on that basis, no matter what anomalies it may present.” quote by George Bernard Shaw](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/53e/george-bernard-shaw-68_capitalism_in-socialism-private-property-is-anathem_1974344.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/53e/george-bernard-shaw-68_capitalism_in-socialism-private-property-is-anathem_1974344.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/53e/george-bernard-shaw-68_capitalism_in-socialism-private-property-is-anathem_1974344.png)

> “In socialism, private property is anathema, and equal distribution of income the first consideration. In capitalism, private property is cardinal, and distribution left to ensue from the play of free contract and selfish interest on that basis, no matter what anomalies it may present.”

[George Bernard Shaw](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/george-bernard-shaw/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Socialism values equal income distribution; capitalism values private property and lets market forces determine distribution.

**In simple terms:** Socialism = equality, capitalism = property rights.

Key Takeaway

Consider which system aligns with your values.

Themes

economics politics philosophy

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical economic

When to use this quote

- policy debate
- education
- business strategy
- social reform

Key Concepts

distribution property rights market dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

- What role should government play in distribution?
- Can equality be achieved without sacrificing freedom?

A Different Perspective

Capitalist markets can produce inequality without regulation.

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[Capitalism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/capitalism/) [Economics](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/economics/) [Private property](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/private-property/) [Selfish interest](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/selfish-interest/) [Socialism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/socialism/)

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