As chatgpt argues below, it's not about more or less capitalism but better capitalism. Mixed economies are better with a free market but basic safety net. Automatically if we're deviating from developed country Norms and dismantling even basic welfare and essentials like basic affordable Healthcare how is that reasonable? Right off rip we can get rid of libertstianism. Perhaps from the other end we can get rid of unbridled socialism. It's always about smart policy, we've lost the policy in politics as al I always say. This stuff is self evident. A little more polarizing, how dies trump fit this model of smart policy for the poor and working class? How does he even begin to help average people, or the poor and working class? Let's not make this a sideshow thread about trump tho. More, less, or better capitalism within civilized norms and how our political system and parties fit into that
Whether *more* or *less* capitalism is best for helping most people depends heavily on what kind of capitalism we're talking about and how it's balanced with other social mechanisms. Let’s break it down:---### ✅ **Where More Capitalism Helps Most People****Capitalism** can be a powerful engine for:* **Innovation**: Competition drives new ideas, technologies, and services.* **Economic growth**: Incentivizes productivity and entrepreneurship.* **Consumer choice**: People can choose products, services, and jobs that fit their needs.Historically, **market-based systems** have pulled billions out of extreme poverty (e.g., post-1980s China with market reforms, or the rise of South Korea). But that success often came alongside *state planning* and strong social frameworks, not laissez-faire capitalism.---### ❌ **Where Less Capitalism (or Regulated Capitalism) Helps Most People**Unregulated capitalism tends to:* **Exacerbate inequality**: Wealth accumulates in fewer hands.* **Exploit labor and the environment**: Race-to-the-bottom dynamics hurt workers and ecosystems.* **Undermine democracy**: Excessive corporate power can distort policymaking (regulatory capture, lobbying, etc.).In many wealthy countries, **regulated capitalism** or **mixed economies** (e.g., Nordic models) have provided the best outcomes. These systems use markets *plus*:* Progressive taxation* Universal healthcare and education* Strong labor protections* Social safety nets---### 📊 What Works Best for Most People?**Mixed economies**—not pure capitalism or socialism—consistently rank highest on:* Well-being* Longevity* Education* Social mobilityThese societies combine **market freedom** with **state responsibility** and **community values**.---### 🧠 Guiding Principle**The goal isn’t more or less capitalism—it’s better capitalism.**That usually means:* Keeping the efficiency and innovation of markets* Correcting their failures through democratic institutions---If you're asking this question from a moral or spiritual perspective, or with regard to sustainability, we can explore those angles too.
