The term democratic socialism signifies a political ideology that advocates for political democracy alongside social ownership of the means of production. It emphasizes the need for a political system based on democratic principles, coupled with policies aimed at reducing inequality and providing for the welfare of citizens through universal services like healthcare and education. While democratic socialists seek to mitigate capitalism's excesses, they uphold the democratic process, opposing authoritarianism. This ideology is distinct from traditional socialism in its commitment to formal democratic structures and electoral politics, focusing on achieving social change through democratic means.