It’s OK to Be Angry About Capitalism Summary

"True individual freedom cannot exist without economic security." Bernie Sanders challenges us to rethink what freedom truly means in a capitalist society.

1. Democratic Socialism: A Vision for Fairness

Democratic socialism isn’t about abolishing capitalism but curbing its excesses to create a just society. Bernie Sanders argues that modern capitalism has created severe inequalities, leaving the majority struggling while a few amass immense wealth. He believes that unchecked corporate greed undermines true freedom, as people are trapped in a cycle of precarious jobs and unaffordable necessities.

Sanders frames democratic socialism as a path to fulfill the ideals of liberty and opportunity for all. He cites policies like universal health care, free public education, and fair wages as ways to expand individual freedoms. The aim is not to restrict economic success, but to ensure that basic human needs are met so everyone has the chance to thrive. Without economic security, options are limited, and true freedom becomes unattainable.

The philosophy also aligns with historical precedents, notably Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. FDR argued that economic stability was essential to liberty. Sanders echoes this sentiment, advocating for not just restoring this principle but evolving it for the demands of the 21st century.

Examples

• Sanders’ campaigns emphasized rights like health care and affordable education for everyone.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal became a hallmark of ensuring the working class had security and opportunity.
• Nordic countries demonstrate how regulated capitalism can coexist with robust social programs.

2. Building Grassroots Movements for Change

Sanders didn’t just share ideas; he mobilized people to fight for them. Both his 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns succeeded in creating massive grassroots movements, driven by small-dollar donations and energized by volunteers. His ability to win 22 states in 2016 shows the growing appetite for change.

Grassroots organizing involves directly engaging people instead of relying on big-money donors or superficial advertisements. His strategy included local rallies, door-to-door canvassing, and innovative social media use to connect with younger voters. Even after suspending his campaigns, his movement has left a lasting impact, reshaping America’s political discourse.

Critics view his campaigns as failures since he didn’t clinch the presidency. However, the movement’s success wasn’t about winning one election; it was about making once-dismissed ideas mainstream. Today, policies like Medicare for All and tuition-free college are no longer “radical” but seen as viable solutions.

Examples

• Sanders’ 2016 campaign won him 22 states without billionaire donors.
• The 2020 Nevada Democratic caucus saw Sanders dominating thanks to diverse grassroots support.
• Local activists inspired by Sanders now run for offices at various levels.

3. The Democratic Party’s Betrayal of Workers

The Democratic Party used to be the champion of the working class, but that allegiance seems fractured. Sanders points out how Democrats increasingly cater to wealthy donors and corporations, sidelining the economic struggles of everyday Americans. This shift has driven many blue-collar workers to vote for Republicans, despite Republican policies that don’t align with their economic interests.

Sanders criticizes fellow Democrats who obstruct policies that would benefit the working class. For example, progressive proposals like universal healthcare and a $15 minimum wage face resistance, not just from Republicans but also from centrist Democrats.

This disconnect between the Democratic Party and its traditional base is concerning for Sanders. He sees it as both a moral failure and a strategic misstep. For Democrats to reclaim their roots, they need to prioritize everyday Americans over elite donors.

Examples

• The Build Back Better Act lost its teeth due to centrist Democrats’ opposition.
• Sanders’ minimum wage bill was blocked even though it had widespread public support.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal stands in stark contrast to the modern Democratic platform.

4. The Wealth Gap: A Systemic Issue

The stark divide between the rich and the poor in the US exposes flaws in the economic system. Billionaires saw their wealth grow massively during the pandemic, while ordinary Americans struggled to afford basic needs. Sanders argues this lopsided wealth distribution isn’t just immoral; it weakens society as a whole.

He highlights how billionaires use their immense fortunes to influence politics and evade taxes. Meanwhile, working-class Americans face stagnant wages and rising costs. This imbalance stifles opportunity and creates an economy that favors a privileged few over the majority.

To tackle this, Sanders wants higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations to fund essential programs. The additional revenue could provide universal healthcare, affordable housing, and debt-free education, ensuring that the economy works for everyone.

Examples

• During COVID-19, billionaires’ wealth jumped by 73%, while others lost their homes or jobs.
• The top 1% in the US owns more wealth than the bottom 92%.
• Workers’ real wages have dropped despite significant productivity growth.

5. Fixing a Broken Health Care System

America’s health care system prioritizes profit over people. Sanders highlights how the system’s inefficiencies result in sky-high costs and worse outcomes. The for-profit model means even basic care remains inaccessible for millions, especially minorities and the working class.

The consequences are dire. Life expectancy in the US is declining for the first time in decades, driven by “Diseases of Despair” linked to poverty. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies engage in price-gouging, forcing patients to ration critical medications like insulin.

Sanders advocates for Medicare for All to make health care a right, not a privilege. He proposes a phased plan to implement free health care nationally, which would not only save lives but also reduce overall spending compared to the current flawed system.

Examples

• 44% of Americans struggle to pay for health insurance.
• US life expectancy dropped from 78.86 years in 2019 to 76.6 years in 2021.
• Sanders’ Medicare for All plan could save $650 billion annually by cutting bureaucracy.

6. Education as an Equalizer

Education is one of the most effective tools for creating opportunity. Yet in America, quality education often comes with a hefty price tag, leaving many trapped in cycles of poverty. Sanders argues that education should be treated as a public good, like roads or clean water.

From tuition-free college to increased funding for public schools, Sanders outlines proposals to strengthen the education system. These changes would empower people to think critically and engage with important social and political issues.

Investing in education benefits both individuals and society. An educated population is likelier to innovate and solve complex problems. To Sanders, this investment is essential for building a future that works for everyone.

Examples

• Finland offers free education and is among the world leaders in academic performance.
• The US student debt crisis exceeds $1.7 trillion, burdening millions of graduates.
• Local underfunded schools often lack basic resources.

7. Media Monopolies and the Crisis of Information

Sanders is concerned about the consolidation of media ownership. Just a handful of corporations control most news outlets, shaping what audiences see and hear. This limits accountability and fosters distrust in journalism.

Big corporations prioritize profits over unbiased reporting. They dominate discussions with shallow stories on polls or scandals, while ignoring deeper issues like wealth inequality or workers’ struggles. To remedy this, Sanders proposes public funding for independent journalism, enabling diverse voices to thrive.

Trustworthy journalism is crucial for democracy. Citizens can’t make informed decisions without access to accurate, varied information. Sanders’ vision emphasizes investing in the media as a public service.

Examples

• Eight major conglomerates control 90% of the media in the US.
• Countries like Norway fund public media to ensure impartial reporting.
• Billionaires like Jeff Bezos buy media outlets to influence public opinion.

8. The Role of Organized Labor

Sanders views unions as vital to defending workers’ rights. They help secure fair wages, better working conditions, and healthcare benefits. Organized labor can counterbalance corporate power in a rigged system.

Union membership has declined dramatically over the years due to corporate resistance and weak legal protections. Sanders wants to strengthen labor laws, making it easier for workers to organize and advocate for themselves.

Revitalizing unions would give workers a voice in shaping policies and safeguarding their interests, creating a fairer economic landscape.

Examples

• Unionized Amazon workers fought for better wages and conditions, inspiring others.
• In the mid-20th century, unions helped establish the five-day workweek and safer workplaces.
• Sanders supports the PRO Act to empower collective bargaining.

9. Fighting for Environmental Sustainability

Climate change endangers the planet and deepens inequality. Sanders ties the fight for sustainability to economic justice. Policies like the Green New Deal could transition the economy to renewable energy, creating millions of jobs in the process.

He denounces the fossil fuel industry’s influence over politics, which blocks meaningful environmental action. Sanders emphasizes the need for bold investments in clean energy while mitigating the impact on workers in traditional industries.

Addressing climate change is both a moral obligation and an opportunity for progress, according to Sanders. Neglecting it leads to devastation, while action ensures a livable future.

Examples

• Droughts and wildfires increasingly affect lower-income communities.
• Renewable energy projects employ many people in countries like Germany.
• The Green New Deal framework combines climate action with job creation.

Takeaways

1. Support policies and leaders fighting for wealth redistribution, livable wages, and universal healthcare.
2. Get involved at the community level through voting, volunteering, or grassroots advocacy.
3. Stay informed from diverse, independent media sources and advocate for funding unbiased journalism.