Capitalism is cruel. This thought continues to pervade the mind of society as capitalism becomes viewed as a brutal and unfair system of economics. Michael Moore, during an interview, discusses the contrasting doctrine of socialism to be the saving grace of the American people. He emphasizes the kindness and compassion associated with Socialism and depicts it as evolved form of economics. But, his argument contains contradictions and sweeping generalizations without discussing the actual consequences of socialism. Many of his statements exaggerate and avoid the true meaning of the speaker and uplifts the "common good"
without taking into account the sinful nature of mankind.
Mr. Moore states socialism is democracy. Not only is that a fundamental misrepresentation of democracy, but a grossly misconstrued definition of socialism. Socialism, by definition, places the ownership of the means of production into the hands of the government. Thereby infringing on the basic freedoms of America and dissolving the purpose of the Bill of Rights. The government was not intended to be a business or a provider of goods, but to insure that are civil liberties were being protected. This does not extend to healthcare and the distribution of money. Socialism is not democracy, in fact, socialism is a step in a achieving communism- the absolute of "moral and ethical care."Even more so, socialism promotes a reliance upon the government for employment, healthcare, and direction. It places boundaries around the lives of citizens and promotes a defiance against working hard and initiative. Upon exploration into the consequences of Socialism, Mr. Moore would find the system to innately promote corruption and laziness. The government would become wealthy and citizens unhappy. Ignorance is attached to the idea of socialism, whereas democracy understands the human condition and attempts to enhance it. For instance, Mr. Moore states that within socialism "We the people have the say" which suggests a naive view of socialism and the idea that a person's say automatically insures prosperity and happiness. Socialism crushes the economy and diminishes the basic facets of America's prosperity. It is a solution masked behind a facade of compassion, but merely serves to grant the state an exorbitant amount of power. Socialism is not democracy,
nor will it ever engender the same freedoms.
The second major flaw within Michael Moore's argument was his equalization of religion and their innate glorification of socialism. Firstly, Moore states "All great religions say that the wealthy shouldn't get nine slices of the pie while the rest fight over one peace." In response, Christianity does not support socialism and the idea suggested by Moore and furthermore nor does Islam. These two dominant worldviews promote the initiative of the worker and the importance of the principle "If you don't work, you don't eat."Rewards have importance based upon the merit of their work. Socialism is at odds with the basic principles of Christianity and Islam as it demands provisions without any action. Indeed, it defies the biblical exhort of a cheerful worker and diligence. The redistribution of wealth is a violation of the commandment "do not steal."Moreover, Deuteronomy 8:18 states "But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today." Biblical Christianity understands the gift of money and property and the ability to work to be ordained by God. Even more so, socialism casts wealth as evil and a product of nepotism or unfairness- it fails to recognize the goodness attached to hard work and the subsequent satisfaction. Michael Moore declares he "doesn't care what we call it", he merely wants an advancement of society. However, his argument fails to recognize the contrasting opinion of different religions and the importance of the values within capitalism. Religions are not all the same and nor is socialism automatically assumed to be superior.
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