Capitalism, Part II

Capitalism is an economic system based on the private ownership of the means of production and their operation for profit. Central characteristics of capitalism include capital accumulation, competitive markets, a price system, private property, and the recognition of property rights, voluntary exchange, and wage labor.

Capitalism creates classes. It may not select winners and losers, but it does create an environment where some progress and others fall behind.

The poorest (those who are homeless, under-housed, or living below the federal poverty line ) amongst us have an interesting relationship with capitalism. More than any other group, they are sold an idea of the American dream. Despite economic hardship, generational poverty, or the impossibility of succeeding without some form of assistance, they are told to picture white picket fences, two cars in the garage, and life in the suburbs. They are often sold this idea without first acknowledging the systems which keep people in poverty. Before them lies a minefield filled with unaffordable housing, inequitable education, an unfair and unbalanced criminal justice system, denial of work based on criminal history, lack of access to mental health care, racism, sexism, and much more.

Instead, without fully acknowledging the deck stacked against them, we tell them to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. We…