That is a debatable point. There are SO MANY defintions of socialism that it is hard to say what it exactly is. Also, unlike communism (Marx's works, etc) or capitalism (Adam Smith's works, etc), socialism doesn't really have a solid work behind it. There is no Wealth of Nations. There is no Communist Manifesto. So, it's really hard to say for sure whether something is or is not socialism .

I admit that quite a few hold your view but it is misleading. No one who is ideologically driven, or follows econopolitics, can seriously consider Canada to be socialist. There are many criticial things that are lacking. In particular, workers don't have enough power. Yes, it is better than most countries but it is seriously lacking. We are still worker-consumer ants. That is hardly socialism. When it comes to egalitarianism, THE most important driving philosophy of socialism, Canada is lacking too. I don't know about you but most socialists would not be happy with a society where billionaires rule. You literally have to be a millionaire to run for prime minister, you need to be supported by the wealthy, etc. How can one seriously consider Canada socialist when a CEO of a large company has greater access to politicians than you or me? They can call politicians and set up meetings, while you (or even if you are small business) try doing that.

I think it is most accurate to consider Canada to be a capitalist country with socialist ideals. THat's how I look at it and most people realize that. For instance, people refer to Canada as Mixed Economy precisely for that reason.

Sivaram Velauthapillai