A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

Bay of Fundy, tide out

I find myself espousing a form of capitalism that doesn't seem to exist -- one based in fairness and driven by merit.

I have trouble with the naked "liberty" espoused laissez-faire capitalists. I believe a society is better served by legislation and regulation that serves the common good (e.g., minimum wage that is a sustainable wage, strong consumer protections, world-class public education, and a public safety net).

I am from the "rising tide lifts all boats" view of capitalism. A society has the potential to do great things with abundant wealth. Perhaps I'm too much of an idealist to abandon that ideal.

Bertrand Russell captures the essence capitalism that serves the few:

"Advocates of capitalism are very apt to appeal to the sacred principles of liberty, which are embodied in one maxim: The fortunate must not be restrained in the exercise of tyranny over the unfortunate." ― Bertrand Russell

The tide is out. The boats are beached.