The hottest Capitalism Substack posts right now

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American "Uber-Capitalism" Is Soul Crushing

Changing The Channel • 757 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Capitalism American Society
  1. American capitalism today is criticized by Bernie Sanders as 'uber capitalism' for its lack of decency and morality.
  2. Sanders emphasizes the necessity of economic security for true freedom, highlighting the importance of social safety nets.
  3. Sanders draws inspiration from FDR and sees Scandinavia as a model for the kind of economic system he supports.

Capitalism put an end to systematic warfare

Wood From Eden • 960 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Warfare Evolution Economics Capitalism
  1. Capitalism led to the decline of systematic warfare as the main way for producers to compete.
  2. Human evolution has been a struggle between individual and group selection, where societies with best productivity survived wars.
  3. The shift to the market economy allowed producers to compete directly, promoting productivity without the need for destructive warfare.

How SP culture produces financial crisis

America in Crisis • 59 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
💰 Finance Financial Crisis Economic Growth Corporate Profits Capitalism Taxation
  1. Financial crisis can stem from a shift in profit usage from investment to financial market growth, impacting economic growth.
  2. SP culture, focusing on shareholder returns through stock buybacks and dividends, can lead to financial instability and economic downturns.
  3. Minsky's financial instability hypothesis outlines how capitalist economies can transition from safe to risky financial structures, culminating in financial crises.
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‘Woke Kindergarten’ Is Capitalism At Work

Singal-Minded • 972 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
💼 Business Education Capitalism School funding
  1. An elementary school in Hayward, CA spent $250,000 on Woke Kindergarten, a for-profit company, to address student achievement issues.
  2. Despite the investment, student achievement at Glassbrook Elementary has fallen, highlighting the vulnerability of the students and the urgency of quality education.
  3. The situation underscores the capitalistic nature of the educational system, even when initiatives claim to be against capitalism.

Returning to Origins

Unpopular Front • 103 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Political History Ideologies Totalitarianism Capitalism
  1. The idea of endless expansion is central to certain political and economic beliefs. It suggests that growth is the ultimate goal, often seen in capitalist thinking.
  2. Many thinkers, like Arendt, have been quoted and referenced without fully understanding their ideas. This results in misinterpretations of their work and less meaningful conversations about important issues.
  3. The current alliance between different societal groups, like tech-oligarchs and the mob, shows a shared mindset that prioritizes power and accumulation, often at the expense of ethical considerations.

Imperialism: How the struggle of both classes and nations creates our world

Geopolitical Economy Report • 518 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Imperialism Capitalism Crisis Finance Economy
  1. Imperialism is a product of the struggle between classes and nations, impacting our world.
  2. Geopolitical economy helps in understanding international relations within the capitalist world system.
  3. The BRICS summit signifies an alternative economic vision based on cooperation and development, challenging traditional Western imperialism.

The Capitalist is Useless.

JoeWrote • 92 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Capitalism Socialism Economic Theory Labor Rights Wealth Inequality
  1. Capitalists were once important for society by helping to build industries and trade. Now, they are seen as less useful because most work is done by the people, while capitalists take the profits without doing much themselves.
  2. Modern technology comes a lot from public funding and resources, showing that capitalists often profit off ideas created by the public. So, people can question what actual role capitalists play in today's economy.
  3. Instead of relying on capitalists, society could benefit more from worker-owned businesses and government-managed industries. This would allow everyone to get fair value for their work and reduce exploitation.

The Road to Hell, part 1 of 3

Thoughts on Writing • 459 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
💼 Business Branding Ethics Marketing Capitalism
  1. Purpose in business, particularly social purpose, can lead to flawed ethical thinking and potentially negative outcomes.
  2. The concept of purpose emerged as a response to the reputational crisis faced by big businesses post-2008 financial crisis, aiming to portray them as 'good guys'.
  3. The purpose movement in business and marketing gained momentum in the 2010s but led to questionable outcomes, showcasing a gap between feel-good stories and harsh realities.

Meditations on Machinic Desire

Nothing Human • 57 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Capitalism AI Ethics Addiction Cultural critique
  1. We are moving towards a future where artificial intelligence may surpass human intelligence, and it might happen gradually rather than suddenly. This means machines could take over many tasks we currently do without a clear turning point.
  2. The idea of capitalism is being explored as something that may harm our human nature. It could act like a virus that drives us to work endlessly for money, rather than for meaningful relationships or experiences.
  3. Our desires are becoming more virtual and less tied to reality. Instead of wanting real things, we often find ourselves chasing numbers or metrics, which can make us less happy even as society becomes more prosperous.

Here's 5 ways the media can help the climate movement (rather than just terrifying us)

The Green Fix • 196 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Media Coverage Capitalism Climate solutions Political Influence
  1. Media should connect climate news to different sectors like business and politics
  2. Capitalism plays a big role in the climate crisis and needs more media attention
  3. Media should spotlight the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on the Global South and follow the money behind climate decisions

The Price of Passion (Life is like a jar of marbles)

Neckar’s Notes • 111 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investment Wealth Capitalism Philanthropy Markets
  1. Being passionate about your work can be great, but it can also lead to burnout. It's important to find a balance so that you don't end up hating what you once loved.
  2. Some wealthy individuals work hard without needing the money, and they often question why they keep doing it. Reflecting on the usefulness and purpose of their efforts can lead to deeper self-understanding.
  3. Philanthropy can be a way to find meaning and happiness for those with excess wealth. However, just giving money away doesn’t always bring fulfillment if one is stuck in a life of work they don't enjoy.

Why degrowth eco-socialism?

Adapt : Survive : Prevail • 275 implied HN points • 09 Jul 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Degrowth Capitalism Socialism
  1. Capitalist growth prioritizes profit over human needs, leading to suffering and environmental degradation.
  2. Degrowth eco-socialism advocates for reducing overall economic activity to align with human needs and sustainability.
  3. Creating an egalitarian society through wealth redistribution and instituting socialism is crucial for a sustainable future.

Big Tech's Class War Politics

Unpopular Front • 88 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Tech Impact Class Struggle Neoliberalism Capitalism
  1. Silicon Valley has shifted political views due to crises in both the U.S. political system and its own beliefs, leading to new coalitions forming that differ from the past.
  2. The tech sector is experiencing a class conflict where some entrepreneurs are pushing for changes against traditional management and labor structures, inspired by authoritarian models.
  3. This new tech movement could attempt to gain majority support, but its harsh approach may limit its ability to create a long-lasting, stable social system.

“Succession” and the end of the illusion of ethical capitalism

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 890 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture TV Series Capitalism Ethics Society Morality
  1. The idea that capitalism can be successful and ethical is shattered by the portrayal in the TV series 'Succession.'
  2. The distinction between a society following legal rules versus one that is truly ethical is highlighted, emphasizing the need to minimize the use of power in both markets and within companies.
  3. The blurring of moral lines between personal and professional spheres in 'Succession' serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive influence of commercialization and amoral behavior in our society.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: An Ur-Text by George Stigler for Dark Satanic Millian Liberalism, & Related Matters...

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 76 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
💼 Business Economics Market Theory Capitalism Economic History Liberalism
  1. The market economy is seen not just for creating wealth, but for shaping character and virtues like self-discipline and resilience. This suggests that economic struggles can help people become better individuals.
  2. Some economists argue that uncertainty and risk of poverty are necessary for a society to function well. They believe without these challenges, people might not push themselves to improve.
  3. Critics of this perspective think that focusing on the hardships of capitalism ignores the real needs and experiences of everyday people. They see value in prosperity and security, not just in struggle and sacrifice.

Why is my Electric Company Using Uber-Style Surge Pricing?

JoeWrote • 33 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Capitalism Energy Policy Economic Theory
  1. Xcel Energy is using surge pricing for electricity to increase profits, especially during peak hours. This could make it hard for people to manage their bills.
  2. The idea that capitalism leads to innovation is challenged, as many believe companies find new ways to charge more rather than truly improve consumer life.
  3. Consumers feel trapped by energy monopolies, and experts suggest shifting towards public utilities for better service and prices.

Capitalism unchained

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 830 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🌍 World Politics Capitalism Democracy Authoritarianism Socialism Fascism
  1. Democracy does not necessarily come with capitalism and may even be destroyed by it.
  2. Unbridled capitalism leads to social instability empowering right-wing parties.
  3. Success of Western capitalism in mid-20th century was influenced by pressure from Soviet Union and left-wing parties, which led to a period against normal capitalist tendencies.

A brief history of capitalism (& socialism & communism)

The Novelleist • 684 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Capitalism Socialism Communism Regulation
  1. Industrialization led to the growth of big corporations, creating inequality which sparked movements for socialism and communism.
  2. Workers' rights improved through regulations in capitalist countries after World War II, leading to economic prosperity.
  3. Capitalism emerged as the most successful economic model globally, but there are ongoing challenges like wealth inequality and environmental impact that need to be addressed.

A Requiem for Techno-Optimism

Banana Peel Pirouette • 118 implied HN points • 01 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Technology Nostalgia Capitalism Consumerism
  1. Vaporwave and mallsoft genres often reflect nostalgia for the past and critique the impact of digital culture on societal norms.
  2. The evolution of internet culture from anonymity to personal branding shifted social dynamics and expectations.
  3. The decline of physical malls symbolizes the shift towards online shopping and the changing nature of consumer experiences.

On the shitfication of cities

The Leftovers • 219 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Urbanism Capitalism Gentrification Resistance
  1. The city is constantly evolving and being impacted by the dynamics of capitalism.
  2. Urban capital accumulation leads to the homogenization of city spaces, diminishing social opportunities and diversity.
  3. A solution to combat the negative impacts of capitalism on cities is through collective efforts to re-socialize spaces and address urban alienation.

Genetic Fitness and Prime Minister Salaries

Ulysses • 79 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Wealth Politics Inequality Capitalism Morality
  1. Questions are raised about Prime Ministers' salaries and the impact on their performance, highlighting the importance of fair compensation for effective governance.
  2. Wealth generation, inheritance, and income disparity are discussed in relation to social morality and the need for wealth to be created through value-generating activities.
  3. The effectiveness of economic systems in improving quality of life over generations, the role of capital allocation, and the potential risks of policymakers losing touch with the general public are examined.

The Schizophrenia of the GOP Platform

Banana Peel Pirouette • 158 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Liberalism Capitalism Social Issues Media influence
  1. The GOP platform shows a contradiction between social conservatism and economic conservatism.
  2. Under a capitalist system, traditional values are challenged by the free market's constant evolution.
  3. The emergence of new social dynamics, such as the decline in church attendance and changing family structures, can be attributed to the effects of capitalism.

Why Techno-Optimism Alone Fails

Anima Mundi • 20 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Innovation Society Sustainability Capitalism Systems Thinking
  1. Techno-optimism believes technology alone can solve big problems, but real solutions need deep changes in how we think about society and progress. Simply having more tech doesn't guarantee a better future.
  2. Silicon Valley often looks for quick fixes to complicated issues, but many problems require a smarter, more thoughtful approach rather than just engineering solutions and fast growth.
  3. Technology should aim to help everyone, not just the wealthy. We need a fair system that shares resources and gives everyone access to the tools they need for a better life.

'War on drugs has failed': At UN, Colombia condemns 'addiction to money and oil'

Geopolitical Economy Report • 219 implied HN points • 27 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Peace Climate Justice Capitalism
  1. Colombia's President declared 'The war on drugs has failed,' pointing out that drug addiction is a social issue linked to capitalism's 'addiction to money and oil.'
  2. Gustavo Petro emphasized that peace with the planet is necessary for peace between nations, condemning the Global North for its treatment of refugees and migrants.
  3. Petro warned that the focus on profit and irrational power is leading to environmental destruction and climate disaster, calling for an end to the war on drugs and all conflicts.

Yes, we took your stuff and are making a killing. Why aren't you happy when we offer you scraps?

Alex's Personal Blog • 131 implied HN points • 04 Jan 24
🕹 Technology AI Copyright Innovation Capitalism
  1. OpenAI is incorporating internet content, including from the New York Times, into its AI models
  2. OpenAI is making deals with publishers to mitigate legal risks and continue using content
  3. The New York Times initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI for using its material without compensation, highlighting the importance of fair compensation in technology innovation

US pushing war on China: Malaysia's ex PM explains imperialism's roots in capitalism

Geopolitical Economy Report • 199 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Imperialism Capitalism Global South
  1. Malaysian ex-PM warns US is trying to start a war with China over Taiwan.
  2. Imperialism is described as rooted in capitalism, enabling economic exploitation of the Global South.
  3. There is a critique on unrestricted capitalism leading to monopolies, disinterest in social needs, and imbalance in trade relationships.

Why real environmental action is so hard

Technology, Environment, and Art • 39 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Capitalism Science Consumerism Sustainability
  1. The global capitalistic-consumerist system is fundamentally destructive and promotes unsustainable practices, causing cognitive dissonance in individuals.
  2. Efforts to address environmental issues are often evaluated based on their ability to further global consumerism rather than their actual impact.
  3. To truly make a difference, we need to challenge the current industrial and capitalistic systems, reassess our reliance on technology, and make significant lifestyle changes to prioritize sustainability over convenience.

Mark Fisher was right: The desire for Starbucks really is the thwarted desire for communism

The 21st Century Proletarian • 79 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Communities Capitalism Revolution
  1. The desire for Starbucks might be a yearning for a communal space like communism, highlighting how economic systems affect our social interactions.
  2. Third places, like coffee houses or the Agora in ancient Athens, play a crucial role in fostering community, political consciousness, and social connections.
  3. The shift from real-life third places to online bubbles has led to increased loneliness, with digital interactions lacking the depth and variety of human connections found in physical communal spaces.