The centre and centre-left of the

political spectrum
Social democracy
A political theory advocating the use of
democratic means to achieve a gradual
transition from capitalism to socialism.
Inequalities can be addressed but an
enhanced level of state intervention within
the existing structure of the capitalist
economic system.
Democratic socialists believe that both the
economy and society should be run
democraticallyto meet public needs, not to
make profits for a few. To achieve a more just
society, many structures of our government
and economy must be radically transformed
through greater economic and social
democracy so that ordinary Americans can
participate in the many decisions that affect
our lives.
Liberalism
a political or social philosophy advocating the
freedom of the individual, parliamentary
systems of government, nonviolent
modification of political, social, or economic
institutions to assure unrestricted
development in all spheres of human
endeavor, and governmental guarantees of
individual rights and civil liberties.
Modern liberalism emerged from the fight for
religious freedom. (XVI and XVII centuries)
Rights of the individual were prominent
concerns of liberal philosophers.
Liberalism emphasized individualism
progressivism
The Progressive Movement began in the late 19th and early 20th
centuries in cities with settlement workers and reformers who were
interested in helping those facing harsh conditions at home and at
work. The reformers spoke out about the need for laws regulating
tenement housing and child labor. They also called for better
working conditions for women.



The term progressivism emerged in reference to a more general
response to the vast changes brought by industrialization: an
alternative to the traditional conservative response to social and
economic issues and, despite being associated with left-wing
politics, to the various more radical
streams of communism or anarchism.