Recent articles have concerned socialism as opposed to capitalism and why we need a little of both.  These writers speak of capitalism as having gone too far. Just because one person is rich does not make another poor.

Capitalism might be better understood with a short illustration.

Let’s suppose we live in a country of 100 people.  All the people have a home, an automobile, a job and $100 in the bank.  One member decides to write a book or write a song or build a new mouse trap, something that others might like.  Let’s say 50 people buy the item for $5.  As a result, 49 people now have $95 and 50 others still have  $100. One has $250 from this sale plus his original $100 for a sum total of $350. Socialists might protest the unfairness of this person’s success, providing something that others are willing to buy.

Some have more than others because they are willing to invest in their ideas, imagination and hard work.  This is why America has been able to achieve among the highest standards of living. If you don’t think so, maybe you should.

Another concern of those who dislike capitalism is the fact that rich people have been able to influence legislators with their money.  They provide money for politicians to run for office and expect something in return, like favorable legislation for their business operations. I see nothing wrong with this effort to further their business interest, except politicians that can be so easily bought do not have the peoples’ interest or well being in mind.  Solution: term limits or restrictions concerning donations to politicians.

Even with the irritating imperfection of our government, it is still the best in the world. I’m not about to move to anywhere else.

— Richard Roberts

Kannapolis

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