System Failure

System Failure explores the dynamics of economic systems, labor structures, debt mechanisms, and religious influences on societal evolution. It critically analyzes historical patterns of wealth inequality, consumption patterns, and the impact of technology on labor. The substack also delves into ancient religious practices and their socio-economic implications, offering perspective on potential systemic shifts.

Economic Systems Labor and Wages Debt and Financial Systems Religion and Society Wealth Inequality Technological Impact on Society Historical Socio-Economic Patterns Consumerism and Consumption Ancient Religious Practices Systemic Shifts and Paradigm Changes

The hottest Substack posts of System Failure

And their main takeaways

Real Magic (Part II)

78 implied HN points • 09 Dec 21
  1. In Medieval Europe, there were two main factions: the Catholic church and the magical tradition.
  2. The church viewed humans as sinners paying for an original sin, while the magical tradition believed in humanity as co-creators with God.
  3. Despite the scientific revolution, the church's perception of humans as insignificant sinners persisted, showing the resilience of their worldview.

Monetizing Belief

19 implied HN points • 11 Oct 23
  1. Money is just a measure, not actually wealth.
  2. Banks create most money through credit, not the government printing press.
  3. Credit creation by banks impacts inflation and home prices.

Business & Democracy

78 implied HN points • 08 Nov 21
  1. The US is heavily dependent on foreign countries for crucial products due to outsourcing of manufacturing jobs.
  2. The structure of business is undemocratic, with owners making all major decisions while employees have limited input.
  3. Wealth inequality driven by stockholders keeping profits for themselves is a major threat to society.

The Monkey's Paw (Part III)

78 implied HN points • 31 Oct 21
  1. Interest has been a crucial tool for advancing civilization, but it comes with a steep price.
  2. Debt jubilees have been historically important in preventing wealth inequality and societal collapse.
  3. Western civilization has faced challenges with wealth distribution and debt management throughout history, leading to collapses and potential dark ages.

Reflections at Eleusis

78 implied HN points • 01 Oct 21
  1. Eleusis in Greece was a significant place in Classical antiquity due to its link to the goddess Demeter and the mystical potion kykeon.
  2. The kykeon at Eleusis possibly contained the hallucinogenic fungus ergot, hinting at potential psychedelic influences on the ancient ritual.
  3. The destruction of Eleusis by Christianity marked a shift from traditional folk biotechnology to a more controlled access to spirituality.
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Real Magic (Part I)

58 implied HN points • 07 Dec 21
  1. European philosophical tradition heavily influenced by Plato's works
  2. Renaissance sparked by cross-pollination of Latin and Greek minds
  3. Forbidden knowledge and magic gained interest in times of turmoil