From our archives: # 3 in our series about capitalist propaganda
(NOTE: First published April 1982; unfortunately nothing much has changed in the way the media handle this fraudulent formulation. Presented as a debating points memo to OWS activists as they confront status quo defenders in various forums.)
“Capitalism and economic freedom are inseparable from political freedom and democracy, indeed their historical guarantors.”
Argentine families do not forget. The banner—in the nation’s colors—reads: “Popular Center for [National] Memory. Former Center for the Clandestine Detention, Torture and Disappearance of Persons. 1976—1979.” The building was used by the police and military during the appropriately named “Dirty War”, in which tens of thousands were arrested and disappeared. Many were simply dropped in the ocean from helicopters. The US government played a big role in training and supporting the criminals who carried out this massive repression.
By Patrice Greanville
“Capitalism and economic freedom are inseparable from political freedom and democracy, indeed their historical guarantors.” This claim, so readily bandied about by the media and capitalism’s apologists, can be easily shown to be a sham. First, as the tragic situation in the Third World illustrates, American-style “free enterprise” simply thrives in lands where democracy and the most elementary human and labor rights have been ruthlessly stamped out. In fact, country after country where human rights have been brutally liquidated, private investment is on the rise, and so is the support of the American government. Continue reading »
