What is a characteristic of democratic socialism?

Democratic socialism is characterized by its emphasis on both democratic political systems and social ownership. The correct choice highlights the commitment to public ownership of certain industries, which is intended to address public welfare and ensure that essential services are accessible to all citizens. This approach combines elements of socialism and democracy, advocating for the redistribution of wealth and resources while still operating within a democratic framework.

In democratic socialism, the government may own or regulate essential industries such as healthcare, education, and transportation to achieve social welfare goals. The aim is to balance individual freedoms with the collective good, ensuring that economic decisions benefit the population as a whole rather than solely private interests. This characteristic distinguishes democratic socialism from other economic systems that prioritize either complete government control or unrestricted capitalism.

Other options reflect extremes in either direction, such as total government control or unregulated capitalism, which do not align with the principles of democratic socialism that advocate for a mixed economy.