Capitalism
Discussions about democracy probably start in Athens about 2500 years ago. A truism is society is democratic to the extent that its citizens play a meaningful role in managing public affairs. Democracy is located within the capitalist economic system infamous for producing colossal inequality. There’s no level playing field, as great income and wealth translate into political power for the haves at the expense of the have-nots. We have procedural democracy: elections, broadcast debates, primaries, etc. Citizens are largely marginalized, overwhelmed by big money and powerful lobbies. Look at the widespread demand to ban assault weapons of war or for universal single-payer health care or protect the environment or affordable housing. People want those things but elites have a simple message. Vote. Then go home and leave everything to us. Actual democracy is hollowed out. A Davos-type class rules.
Recorded at the University of Colorado.
Speaker
Michael Parenti
Michael Parenti is a leading independent political analyst and scholar. Cornel West calls him, “a towering prophetic voice.” He has taught at major colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad. He is the author of numerous books including Democracy for the Few, Power and the Powerless, Superpatriotism, Against Empire, and The Assassination of Julius Caesar.
Elaine –
Amazing well presented perspective. I was a tenured professor at Brown for 18 years and can see where some of these ideas may have orignated, since Parsenti is a Brown grad. Although this is from 1984, it rings more than true today. Thank you Barsamian and AAR for letting ushear it again. Best reagarde to Parsenti.
Bearer
Clark Topper –
Absolutely excellent speech. It is as relevant today as it was in 1984. Ronald Reagan was president in 1984. We are blessed with Trump. That was a joke, people!
I think it should have been called “Capitalism.” I wish he would give an AR talk on socialism.
Bruce K –
Just heard this again on KALW and had to make an effort to review it. This is a very enlightening reminder of what is going on in our lives, that controls almost everything we do, and leaves us with less control over our lives and society than ever before. The United States is backing itself into a tyranny just as fast as it can get us to forget any aspirations of being free men. Listen to it. Listen to it again. Get others to listen to it, before we all forget what is really happening here.
Mark –
I just heard much of this on the radio and need to hear the rest. A wonderful presentation of the human path and interaction with capitalism, contrasting the reality Vs the false perceptions promulgated by … who else but the capitalists themselves. A great introduction and a worth while listen even for veterans of the vanguard.