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Let us have the candor to acknowledge that what we call 'the economy' or 'the free market' is less and less distinguishable from warfare. For about half of the last century, we worried about world conquest by international communism. Now with less worry (so far) we are witnessing world conquest by international capitalism. Though its political means are milder (so far) than those of communism, this newly internationalized capitalism may prove even more destructive of human cultures and communities, of freedom, and of nature. Its tendency is just as much toward total dominance and control.

Wendell Berry#45

EconomyGlobalizationCapitalismControlDominanceWarfare

About this quote

What does it mean?
The economy and warfare are increasingly similar. Capitalism seeks total dominance like communism did, threatening culture and freedom.
In plain terms
The free market acts like war and wants to control everything just like old enemies tried.
What can you take from it?
Economic systems can be as destructive as warfare.

Where it applies

  • analyzing economic systems
  • discussing globalization
  • critiquing capitalism

Putting it to work

  • question economic goals
  • protect local communities
  • limit corporate power

Questions to consider

  • Is capitalism inherently destructive?
  • How do we balance economy and culture?

Another view

Capitalism also drives innovation and growth that benefit many.

More from Wendell Berry

  1. I think we must be careful about too easily accepting, or being too easily grateful for, sacrifices made by others, especially if we have made none ourselves.

    Permalink to quote #44
  2. We are disposed, somewhat by culture and somewhat by nature, to solve our problems by violence, and even to enjoy doing so. And yet by now all of us must at le…

    Permalink to quote #46
  3. What could be more absurd, to begin with, than our attitude of high moral outrage against other nations for manufacturing the selfsame weapons that we manufact…

    Permalink to quote #43

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