Socialism only necessary when private sector fails

I believe Bob Alderman (“History repeats itself under socialism,” March 6) has it wrong. He fails to mention that democratic socialism countries like Sweden, the Netherlands and, to a current extent, Germany are very successful economically and with significant social fulfillment.

He referred to the hideous and barbaric Hitler and Stalin dictatorships, attempting to bring them to the same level as democratic socialism. The German National Socialism was socialism in name only. It was extremely anti-communism and was initially supported by men angry about losing WWI (like the Southern conservatives still angry about losing the Civil War). The history books that most people read tell that it was wars and inequities that brought down the vast majority of civilization, which is still true today.

Socialism is only necessary when the private sector fails or is inefficient in providing services. Public roads, sewers, and fire and police protection are examples of socialism.

This story was originally published March 22, 2016 at 8:14 PM with the headline "Socialism only necessary when private sector fails."