Focus on Crony Capitalism not Class Warfare

Don’t get distracted. Resist effort to discredit OWS by redefining it as class warfare. Keep focused on corporatocracy.  At issue is the capture of our system of governance: the corruption of democracy by narrow self-interests empowered by immense wealth.

Global capitalism is delivering on its promise: wealth is increasing and spreading, living standards are improving, and people are living longer and healthier lives (YouTube video).  Yes, wealth inequities are increasing, but at least wealth IS increasing.  Middle class wages actually did increase 20% or so over the last few decades (while the income of the top 1% increased by almost 200% during that same time period; see Ron Haskins for a more recent discussion of rising fortunes of the 99%).

The wealthier are getting wealthier in part because capitalism rewards those at the top of the pyramid and because globalization grows the bottom of the pyramid. There are more and more  consumers and workers that funnel more and more wealth to the top.

Yes, some redistribution of this wealth is necessary.  At a minimum we must do so because rising inequity leads to declining opportunity, and America is built upon opportunity.  We need to invest in infrastructure that keeps opportunity open: education, roads, smart grids, research and the like.

But mostly we need to reclaim democracy.  We need to get the money out of politics.  Completely out.  The transition back to democracy will be slow, difficult, and require repeated corrections. It will include campaign finance reform, lobbyist reform, and revolving-door reform.  The perfect solution will not present itself, and to wait for it is dangerous because is will only further entrench corporatocracy. We need to act now.  Tolerance for mistakes will be required.  We can learn from these inevitable mistakes and reform again and again and again.  The goal is not in question: a form of governance that serves we the people, an economy that increases wealth and opportunity, and a culture that inspires hope, generosity, and creativity.

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R. Bruce Hull writes and teaches about building capacity in sustainability professionals who collaborate at the intersection of business, government, and civil society. The views are his and are not endorsed by any organization with which he is affiliated.
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