Leftist socialism is a political and economic ideology that advocates for social ownership and democratic control of the means of production. It emphasizes reducing income inequality and providing universal access to essential services like healthcare and education. Leftist socialists often support policies that promote workers' rights and environmental sustainability. This ideology is rooted in the ideas of thinkers like Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, who critiqued capitalism and envisioned a society where resources are distributed based on need rather than profit. Leftist socialism can manifest in various forms, including democratic socialism and Marxist-Leninism, each with its own approach to achieving these goals.