There were possibly slaves in the hold (the trading of which was most definitely a Capitalist pursuit). My point still stands that Capitalism wasnÆt invented 150 years ago; that the principles have been in operation for a very long time.And I donÆt think that Capitalism is absolutely inevitable, but observing various countries around the world today, when a people has been consistently given a free and fair vote over time, you will generally find that they are now living in some variation on a Capitalist meritocracy.
And I think my use of æmeritocracyÆ is correct. My dictionary defines it as Æ...a class of persons making their way on their own ability and talent rather than because of class privileges...Æ
And I donÆt know that bankrupting others is the ultimate successful transaction in a Capitalist model, otherwise the leading companies would have created monopolies in their respective markets by now. Capitalism is quite successful today with several players in most major categories e.g. McDÆs, Burger King, Pizza Hut and many others in fast food. None of these seem in imminent danger of going bankrupt.
Obviously some companies or even entire industries go under (the British motorcycle industry being a classic example). But this is often as a result of entrenched incompetence, or through not staying in touch with consumer demands.
None.
