Just a wee bit on the Olympics juggernaut

Some random thoughts from my Facebook page I'm finding (re the Holympics) the unashamed jingoism & nationalistic prattle, the reporting on tedious trivia, and various rejoicing over conspicuous consumption (the US basketball team ensconced on a luxury liner comes to mind) more than a little irritating. .. whatever happened to sport for sport's sake? Suspect … Continue reading Just a wee bit on the Olympics juggernaut

Ch 5: Human nature — The hierarchy of needs

A bit from the chapter I'm writing: Capitalism plays to what is most insidious in human ‘nature’: competitiveness, acquisitiveness, instant gratification, tribalism. It’s fundamental mandates, the profit motive; economies of scale; the price mechanism; inelasticity of demand… allow this game. The game derives from its character. Capitalism is not programmed for altruism. It is, and … Continue reading Ch 5: Human nature — The hierarchy of needs