Dag, one of the biggest problems with debating Socialism is that the word means so many different things to different people.
For some it means hardcore Marxist Leninism, forced collectivisation, tyranny, equality delivered by force against the people's interests or wishes. I deplore this version of Socialism, and it would certainly have horrified Marx himself.
To me it is an ideal, where basic human rights to healthcare, education, opportunity, housing, employment, free assembly, and religious, sexual and political freedom are all guaranteed.
This latter brand of Socilaism was the guiding philosophy of great political leaders such as Clement Attlee and thinkers like George Orwell. (Anyone who has read 1984 or Animal Farm knows how much Orell despised Stalinism).
I believe that aspiring to create a better society where people are guaranteed such fundamental human rights is what modern progressive Socilaism is about and why it still has a role to play in our lives.
To me Socialism is about giving everyone a stake in society and a chance to play a role in its betterment. I think that's still worth believing in.