I have had a theory for quite a while now that what is driving public policy in the West is not socialism but a reaction by the old money elites to technological advances that allow the middle class to live almost as well as the truly rich.
The first tactic of the eiltes is to use media they control to denigrate middle class lifestyle and consumption. They introduce words like “McMansion” to the lexicon. There is nothing wrong with real mansions, the kind John Edwards, Al Gore, and Thomas Friedman live in, only the kind the upstart middle class enjoy. No SUVs for the common folk, but they are also fine for the rich, along with limos.
When public ridicule doesn’t work, they resort to writing laws to make sure the separation between the rich and the middle class remains wide and distinct.
No school vouchers for the people - private schools are for the elite.
No higher education admissions based on merit - that might keep “legacy” offspring out of the best universities.
No cell phone use in cars - that privilege is reserved for the rich with drivers, or public officials.
No big TVs allowed - home theater needs to be for the rich only.
No big cars, or even cars at all - public transit is for the masses.
No big homes allowed. Pretenders with 5,000 sf homes just won’t do.
And it goes on and on.
Of course, the global warming myth has been the best tool for burdening the middle class ever invented. This article shows the power elites have now dropped any attempt to hide their actual goal -— keep the middle class in their place so the old money types can keep their elevated and separate status.
Brilliant analysis! That sure makes a lot of sense. I am going to have to think about your theory every time something comes out in the "news" denigrating the middle class and their simple pleasures.
“a reaction by the old money elites to technological advances that allow the middle class to live almost as well as the truly rich”
Right. But also, it’s “we’re taking THEIR resources”. Us little plebs should be more “sustainable”, and not use too much of THEIR resources. Don’t we realize that all the gold & oil & stuff belongs to them? Who do we think we are, using up THEIR stuff.
Your theory makes sense!:)