Capitalism vs. socialism

Few people in the United States really fathom the fundamental differences between capitalism and socialism. Those who advocate socialism cite businesses whose apparent goal is to gain a monopoly or control and maximize their return on investment (capital) for their investors. We have adopted rules and regulations to limit monopolies, worker conditions and even products. Net income from individual enterprises and corporation are taxed both on their facilities and income.

The best example of a form of capitalism is within the organized labor movement. The unions seek a monopoly on their product (service) and seek the highest wage (capital) and benefits they can gain for their members (stockholders). That is a form of capitalism! Is that bad?

The problem with socialism is the return on capital, even for the workers it becomes muddled in a whole quagmire of bureaucratic goals and objectives to the point that everything operates at a loss. The end result becomes creating employment positions to produce products and services decided by central government. If we fully embraced a socialistic system we would have a special government agency set equitable wages, benefits and work standards for everyone. That would eliminated the need for unions. Perhaps Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez could head up that agency.

Kelly Niemi

Kelso, Wash.