Big Business and Government

No clear villain or obvious solution emerged from our March 19th discussion about the influence of big business on government . Although it may not be democratic that captains of industry use disproportionate power to further selfish interests, many of us thought that the involvement of corporations in the legislative process can be benign and even essential. Because of the sheer size and complexity of our society, our representatives need the input of special interests in order to write policy. And business sponsored initiatives can often benefit the community and even gain the support of labor. Education reform was cited as an area where public and corporate interests coincide. But it was also demonstrated how capitalists are not above imposing conditions and curricula that suit their own ends. There seemed to be a consensus that the formulation of policy by business and other interests is acceptable so long as the process is equitable and transparent.

But how often does that happen? Greed and corruption are rife and although our group didn't single out any industry or political party, many voiced concern that the movers and shakers too often act to the detriment of the greater good. The mix of power and money is like a toxic concoction to the body politic. But as one pointed out, selfishness is the natural result of a system designed to protect property rights. A discussion ensued about the Constitution and the culture it begot. Several concluded that human nature destines our political systems to focus on short-term approaches and cater to big-money imperatives.

Human nature also compels us to seek solutions and alternatives. Campaign finance reform, increasing government's scope, decreasing its power or maybe capping personal wealth, our talk was peppered with proposals for reform. And that seems like a good way to continue next time as we take a broad and critical view of our "Democracy". Does it work well? Well enough? Is it what the founders intended and would it matter if it were not? Join us this Sunday, April 2nd, 3 PM at the City Café as we talk politics, as usual.