Profit Over People: Neoliberalism and Global Order

Imagine a world where a handful of private interests wield immense power, shaping societies and economies not for the common good but to maximize their own profits. This is the essence of neoliberalism, a term that might sound academic but whose effects ripple through every corner of the globe. Neoliberalism is not a new invention but a continuation of historical patterns where economic elites dictate terms under the guise of free markets and democracy. The so-called Washington Consensus, a blueprint of neoliberal policies, emerged as a dominant force post-World War II, driven largely by the United States and international financial institutions it controls. These policies — trade liberalization, financial deregulation, privatization, and austerity — are often imposed on vulnerable nations through structural adjustment programs, leading to increased inequality and social deprivation.

Take Brazil, for example, hailed by some as a success story of American-style capitalism, yet two-thirds of its population struggled with food insecurity under military rule backed by US interests. Or Mexico, where neoliberal reforms coincided with a collapse in wages and a surge in poverty, despite a growing number of billionaires. These are not isolated cases but emblematic of a system designed to place profit over people.

At the heart of this global order is the United States, which emerged from WWII as the world's economic hegemon, possessing half the world's wealth and a vision to shape the world in its image. This vision prioritized the 'welfare of the world capitalist system,' often at the expense of popular sovereignty and social justice. The US has repeatedly intervened — overtly and covertly — to suppress nationalist or populist movements that threaten this order, as seen in Latin America and beyond.

But neoliberalism is more than just an economic doctrine; it is a political and cultural system that thrives on limiting democratic participation. It thrives where formal democracy exists only as a facade, while real power rests with unaccountable corporate and financial elites. The result is a depoliticized citizenry, marked by apathy and cynicism, where meaningful debate and participation are stifled.

Understanding this foundation is crucial as it sets the stage for exploring how public consent is manufactured and how the myth of free markets conceals the reality of corporate power. As we move forward, we will delve into the ways in which public opinion is shaped to sustain this order, and how resistance emerges in the cracks of this seemingly monolithic system.