In the recent shouting matches featured in Town Hall gatherings in some communities in the United States, the word "socialism" has been used again and again.

"We're afraid of Obama!" Protesters have shouted. "He's a socialist!"

Why are people afraid of socialism?

The United States is a capitalist nation and some are concerned about what will happen if a health care system in this country that employs socialist philosophies and ideals is adopted. Are they right to be worried? What would socialism mean for the United States?

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