IT would be appreciated if Michael Fry provided a warts-and-all comparison between capitalism and what he thinks socialism is (Economic growth remains the best way to navigate the new normal, June 23).
He continually speaks of the “benefits” while completely ignoring the consequences. Therefore his statements merely support a biased opinion, or more commonly a rant in support of his views.
A while ago he took the opportunity to name two people, including me, who wrote concerning his expressed views with no hint of an apology or explanation, merely using his platform to denigrate other people who do not have the luxury of his position. I am more than happy to engage in a debate, but it cannot be one-sided.
READ MORE: Why economic growth is the best way to build a new normal
Fundamentally some elements of capitalism have directly caused many of the wider environmental and societal problems we are increasingly suffering from.
Mr Fry does often have some insightful views but they are overridden by his bald assumptions. In particular, his assertion that capitalism is good at supplying solutions to crises is misplaced and as we have seen recently has been ineffective, driven as we have been by an idealistic capitalist UK Government.
If anything is an advert against capitalism it is what we are seeing played out in Westminster. Economic growth, yes, provides additional resources beyond mere subsistence to provide changes and improvements, but there is nothing inherent in socialism that is against the same outcome.
Capitalism is largely about maximising profit for the few, mainly through avoiding what it deems as unnecessary expenditure or investment. The failure to act early solely on the basis of not causing short-term economic harm is the fundamental reason why we have one of the worst infection and recovery rates in the world.
Nick Cole
Meigle, Perthshire
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel