Collectivism vs. Individualism.

A lot of hay is being made of the word socialists in this years American Presidential Elections, the current president, Barack Obama is often called a socialist, communist, marxists, all as though those names were interchangeable and mean the same thing. Obviously they do not but president Obama's opponents use it as a slur and use it to mean collectivism. They accuse the president of "wanting to share the wealth". Their wealth. They refer to the individual businessperson as an island, creating all they have with no outside help? There is a middle ground, individualism is at the root of western society however without the creation of that society no one can reach their personal goals. Many countries such as Canada accept that we are a social democracy, a blending of socialism and capitalism. Many on the American right believe the US to be completely capitalistic? This is not true, there are safety nets and social welfare programs in abundance. These programs born out of collectivism allow for an orderly and just society in which to work towards your goals.
The constitution of the United States of America starts with "We the people..." Not with "I'm a gonna.." after all.