Capitalism is the first intrinsically expansionist economic system in history. Contrary to its own myth, it did not naturally emerge and is far from being the expression of human freedom.
| This post belongs to a reading series of Less is More by Jason Hickel. For quick access to all chapters, please click here. Disclaimer: This chapter summary is personal work and an invitation to read the book itself for a detailed view of all the author’s ideas. |
The usual story about capitalism is that since it gives everyone a fighting chance, it is the most natural way to go. This story notably assumes that capitalism ended feudality and shaped the way toward a free society. This chapter of Less is More shows that, on the contrary, “There was no smooth, natural ‘transition’ to capitalism, and it has nothing to do with human nature.” (Jason Hickel)