Capitalism deficient

In my previous blog I pointed out that capitalism works for those citizens with the opportunity to earn more than a living wage and, therefore accumulate extra funds to invest; and against those who earn a wage or salary. But there are further inequities to consider. A just society looks after those who cannot afford to look after themselves. And there are many aspects to this care. They need a public health system with free access to hospitals and doctors, free dental and psychiatric services, police services, legal aid, ambulances, childcare, public schools, retirement homes, a public broadcaster and so on. These services are paid for by taxing businesses and those who earn more than a living wage.

However, the concept of providing free services for those otherwise unable to afford them is in direct conflict with the capitalist beliefs that everything has a price, all services should be paid for, and that competition is the best way to keep down costs. There is also the mantra that ‘anyone can make it (to affluence) if they try’. Suggest that to a solo parent living in rented accommodation and raising children while holding down an underpaid job or two. Capitalism and its accompanying beliefs are at the basis of the reluctance of right-wing governments to provide adequate funds to support public organisations. A classic example at present is the 3x difference between the Government support for private school students and that for public school students. Private schools boast theatres, halls, laboratories and indoor sports facilities, while many public schools still house their pupils in temporary classrooms. One of my children attended a public school where morning assembly was held in a covered playground with the children sitting on the floor.

The reluctance of right wing governments to adequately fund free services for those members of the population who are not in a position to pay for them, and the penny-pinching that accompanies this attitude, results in inferior public services. Add to this the fact that wage earners do not have the time, energy or spare cash to join political organisations, and to promote their needs, and nothing changes.