How to Be an Anticapitalist in the Twenty-First Century

Imagine a world where the very fabric of our economic life is woven from two threads: one is the vibrant, bustling market where goods and services flow through countless voluntary exchanges; the other, a more hidden but equally vital thread, is the pattern of ownership and power that shapes who controls these exchanges. Capitalism is not merely about markets but about a specific class structure where the owners of capital hold sway over those who sell their labor. This dual nature sets capitalism apart from other economies where markets might exist but ownership is collective or state-controlled.

Consider this: in many societies, people often accept the idea that markets are neutral or even inherently good. Yet, capitalism intertwines markets with power relations that create deep inequalities. Opposition to capitalism, therefore, cannot rest solely on economic self-interest, because many people's class interests are complex or contradictory. Instead, moral values such as fairness, democracy, and solidarity play a crucial role. This means that even those who benefit materially from capitalism might oppose it on ethical grounds. This broadens the scope of anticapitalist movements beyond narrow class lines.

When we talk about equality, the conversation often becomes tangled in debates about whether equality means giving everyone the same or ensuring everyone has the same opportunities. But a deeper understanding recognizes that life is unpredictable and uneven. Equality, in this sense, means providing all people with broadly equal access to the material and social conditions necessary for a flourishing life. This includes not just income but meaningful work, social recognition, and autonomy. It acknowledges that some people have greater needs and that fairness requires meeting those needs rather than enforcing uniformity.

For example, a child born into poverty faces barriers that no amount of personal effort can fully overcome. Equal access means society must provide the resources and support to level the playing field. This vision challenges us to rethink how justice and fairness operate in our economic systems.

As we begin this journey, understanding these foundational ideas prepares us to explore how capitalism generates inequalities and what values guide our quest for alternatives. Let us now move forward to see how capitalism falls short in realizing these ideals and what that means for our future.