There is no system we can come up with that is not based on self interest.
Socialism and Communism are based on self interest. You have something I want, I get the government to take it in the name of fairness and redistribute it to me. Those who have a lot, the government says you have too much, we will forcibly take it from you and give to those we believe have a need for it whether they’ve earned it or not.
And let’s not forget the Inner Party. The elite overseers of the socialist systems. Like people didn’t get key spots for having certain friends or blackmailing or bribing or doing any of the same things that happen in any other system.
Every system is based on self interest. It’s just that under capitalism people have the best shot at being rewarded for their labors and keeping what they earn.
Great post. Succinct and really not subject to argument.
Ah, that reminds me of the old Russian proverb, “they pretend to pay us, we pretend to work.”