| Description |
America is viewed as the land of opportunity where social class barriers are not so rigid as other societies. The free market capitalist economy and the fluid class system provide ample opportunity for upward mobility. Immigrants arriving in the United States are encouraged to follow their dreams in light of the assumption that it is possible for all Americans to prosper. However, the very structure of the society they are encouraged by also blocks such hopes and dreams. With ever increasing profits, owners are able to gain more control over the workers and other aspects of society as well. Indeed, capitalism has developed into an pervasive entity that is pitted against workers. This phenomenon is a result of the advanced stages of capitalism, and Karl Marx theorized capitalism would create such class antagonisms. Capitalists, or owners of business, are also able to attain the highest political offices. They use such a position for their personal gain. Ronald Reagan used his influence as president to lower the marginal tax rates. These tax changes most decidedly favored the wealthy. These advantages were used to further increase the wealth of the already wealthy. Consequently, the poor working class was disadvantaged because of the policy changes. Edward Kennedy also used his political position for personal and political gain. Even though he is more discrete in his operations, he labors to appease the interests of the working class. By placating them he is granting to capitalists control over their laborers. The North America Free Trade Agreement was another example of politicians succumbing to the interests of the class controlling capital. Bill Clinton wavered on his position regarding NAFTA until he realized which position would be most beneficial to himself. The decision regarding NAFTA was based on the interests of business owners, with little regard to working class people. President Johnson's Great Society had little substantial plans on eliminating the problem of poverty. This program seems to have been geared more towards his own popularity rather than towards impoverished Americans. These political dynamics, when taken together, display the true nature of the American political economy. Although there appears to be true political contest in America, both "sides" ultimately have the same agenda--benefiting capitalist production and their own welfare. This agenda does not serve the material interests of workers. Insofar as similar trends are occurring in the global economy, laborers worldwide are being compromised. |
