Question

What was a major difference between social reformers and socialists in the 18th and 19th centuries

Answer 1

reformism is a political doctrine advocating the reform of an existing system or institute instead it's abolishing and replacement

Answer 2

The main difference between social reformers and socialists is the type of change they are seeking: reform vs. revolution. Social reformers usually support a change that is slow and gradual. They want to maintain existent institutions and only adjust them slightly. On the other hand, socialists advocate complete revolution. They want to dismantle entire systems and build new ones in their place. Therefore, socialism tends to be more disruptive.