Criticisms of Capitalism

[blueeyedboy]

What are the main criticisms of capitalism and how do the capitalists try to counter these criticisms?

I think this is the basis of what we on these boards are trying to make everyone notice, so I think we need to go in depth.

It's also important to know the counter arguments that will inevitably spout from the greedy mouths of the capitalists, so that would be helpful too.

I think this is important because we can then develop our arguments to counter their arguments, not just to show off, but to make it even more clearer of what we're trying to acheive.

[ComradeRed]

The Critique of Bourgeois Economics (http://www.revolutionaryleft.com/index.php?showtopic=56640) thread may help a little. Just a warning, it is very mathematically intensive.

[blueeyedboy]

A bit dense for me ComradeRed, but an intresting read anyhow.

I would have liked something without the maths, if possible, that relates to society today e.g. exploitation occurs even with consent from the employee, because there is much competition for jobs, and the capitalists are not fighting for their jobs. Also, an employee hasn't got the right to put forward his demands, so exploitation occurs straight away.

I believe these criticisms are the kind we need, not the mathematical ones, because these are easier to understand for everyone, and I don't think people are particularly intrested in the maths.

I believe with detailed criticisms of capitalism, we can turn more peoples opinions, and get them on our side. It can be only beneficial in the long run.

Thanks for the link, ComradeRed.

[Jazzratt]

This isn't so mathmatical, I don't know if it exactly fits your criteria, but it's still a good read: Two Worlds (http://technocracy.ca/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=15&page=1).

[blueeyedboy]

Thanks Jazzratt, anyway. A simple but powerful and straight to the point critique.

Keep the criticisms coming, I want more.

[Nusocialist]

I recommend this from the anarchist faq.

http://www.diy-punk.org/anarchy/secCcon.html


And this part one of understanding capitalism from rationalrevolution.
It's not so much a critique,as a description of the realities of capitalism,when the myths are removed.

You can also access the other parts at the bottom.

http://www.rationalrevolution.net/articles...ism_economy.htm (http://www.rationalrevolution.net/articles/capitalism_economy.htm)

[Son of a Strummer]

I think that learning how to articulate criticisms of capitalism to the extent that they become second nature is one of the best activities for those on the left. One of my favourite critiques, because it is so lucid and cogent is by Mike Lebowitz....

Karl Marx: The Needs of Capital vs. The Needs of Human Beings (http://www.dougdowd.org/NewFiles/articles/lebowitzhi.html)