Capitalism at fault

The Covid epidemic has highlighted aspects of society which have been ignored previously. Of critical importance is the contribution of the many citizens who depend on a wage or salary. Until Covid became widespread, these workers were overlooked. Now, only because there is a shortage of staff, and we are all at risk, do we hear and care about the outstanding services provided by nurses, aged-care workers, ambulance drivers, garbage collectors, council workers, mailmen, police and so on. When the economy is strong, and public health and other services are not under stress, the needs of these people are ignored. And yet, society would collapse without them.

Capitalism favours and encourages those who are in the position to make extra money, and entrepreneurs are admired and rewarded for their achievements. But capitalism has little to say about those workers who deliver an honest day’s work for a set reward. Furthermore, employers strive to keep down the wages of their employees, as these costs are set against their profits. The majority of people in society, ie wage and salaried workers, do not have the opportunity to make extra money, invest, or even save. And this situation is exacerbated when there are children to rear and dependent relatives to support. An honest day’s work invariably results in an income which is not enough, or barely sufficient, to cover the costs of accommodation, food, clothing, transport, education and communication. There is no time or opportunity to save for the future, buy shares, increase skills or seek a better paying job.

It’s time to reevaluate the contribution made by those workers who prop up modern society and reward them appropriately. The next time you turn on a tap, flush the toilet, open a letter, put out a dustbin, travel on a train or tram, drive a highway, check out at a supermarket, buy a coffee, turn on a switch, use the internet, receive a vaccination, and so on, think about the people who made all these actions possible, and who will continue to do so, diligently and honestly, without public recognition, and for a minimal wage. Then compare what they regularly do for you with that offered by bankers, real estate agents, lawyers, accountants, insurance agents and politicians. It is easy when comfortably off to overlook all those who continue to provide for our comfort.