This 4/29 topic fascinates me because it can get us to the philosophical differences that lie at the core of the liberal/conservative divide. Jim will present. I’ll post more tightly-focused stuff later. But, in the interest of giving people time to read, here are three great reads:
First, I found a short article that summarizes a fascinating book I’m reading right now that is directly on-point. It explains the extent to which our economy is now dominated by monopolies — to an extent not seen in 100 years — and the economic and political consequences. Almost every industry and service sector is now controlled by 2-3 giant companies. Examples:
- Lenscrafters, Pearle Vision, Sears eyewear, Sunglass Hut, Rayban, and others ARE THE SAME COMPANY, all merged/acquired in the last decade.
- Whirlpool owns Maytag, and thus controls up to 80% market share.
- Retail (Wal-mart, Target), mining, laptops, computer ships, groceries, etc., etc., etc.
Second, as long as I’m here, here’s an interesting expression of how Liberals define “freedom.” And, a very insightful 2005 piece on how conservatives and liberals view the role of government in our democracy.
More later this week.
Civilized Conversation 