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Capitalism makes perfect sense

Capitalism is responsible for western society, especially North America, reaching affluence levels never seen before

Re: “Capitalism hasn’t delivered,” Letters, February 20

Are you kidding me? We live at a time when the ratio of rich people — both per capita and quantitatively — has never been larger in the history of the world. The same can be said of the so-called middle class.

Capitalism — although not in its strictly purest form — is responsible for western society, especially North America, reaching affluence levels never seen before. Food, clothing, shelter, automobiles, leisure activities, etcetera have never been more accessible for those willing to work hard and use the talents they are born with. These things couldn’t exist in a socialistic society; not in the quantities, varieties and affordability provided by a free entrepreneurial society. Invention and innovation thrive under capitalistic principles.

There is a mistaken sense of entitlement or utopian ideal placed in Mr. Terral’s understanding of capitalism. How can capitalism make promises of “house ownership for all” or “universal health care”? These are the fatuous sales pitches from unscrupulous politicians. Capitalism is merely a platform on which we practice economic relationships. Everything we think we are entitled to has to come from somewhere. If I believe free health care should be a natural right, then I have to believe others must accommodate. Can others be forced to supply me a home simply because I think that’s fairness? If I request some good or service from Mr. Terral, I’m certain he would insist in kind. That’s capitalism.

Paul Van Caeseele

Nelson