This OLLI @Berkeley town hall examines democratic socialism not as an abstract ideology, but as a set of governing practices rooted in democratic accountability, public institutions, and shared prosperity. Drawing on expertise in taxation, local governance, and comparative political economy, a panel of speakers will explore how democratic socialist principles are translated into policy, budgets, and everyday decision-making.

Together, these perspectives move beyond slogans to ask harder questions: How do democratic socialist values shape governing choices? What trade-offs emerge in practice? And what can local and international models teach us about building economies and governments that serve the many, not the few?

About the Speakers

Lenny Goldberg brings a long view of tax policy as a democratic tool, examining how revenue systems shape public capacity, equity, and the social contract. His work highlights the political choices embedded in taxation— and their consequences for public services and inequality. 

Daren Fields grounds the discussion at the municipal level, where democratic ideals meet real-world governance. With decades of experience in city management, Fields explores how values such as participation, transparency, and community well-being are operationalized through budgeting, land use, and public safety.

Robert Strand situates democratic socialism within a global comparative framework, challenging the assumption that American-style capitalism is the only viable model. Through the lens of Nordic political economies, he examines how democratic capitalism — anchored by strong public institutions and labor protections — can deliver freedom, innovation, and shared prosperity without abandoning markets. Strand is the Executive Director of the Center for Responsible Business at Berkeley Haas.

Darren Zook will serve as moderator and commenter. His winter OLLI courses explore how democratic systems can be strengthened and made more responsive in an era of deep inequality and division. He teaches political science and global studies at UC Berkeley, specializing in comparative politics and human rights, and has authored six books on democracy, governance, and political change.

Details

• Friday, Jan. 30, 10:30–noon
• For OLLI members and faculty only
• Livestreamed only
• Free for OLLI members and faculty; $15 for Best of OLLI subscribers