The difference between socialism and democratic socialism lies in the approach to economic and political systems. Socialism advocates for collective or governmental ownership of the means of production and aims for an equitable distribution of resources, often through central planning. In contrast, democratic socialism seeks to combine elements of socialism with democratic governance, prioritizing individual freedoms and political processes while advocating for reforms that promote social welfare. This model emphasizes achieving socialist goals through electoral democracy rather than revolutionary means, fostering a balance between economic equity and personal liberties.