The average American's role is strange, indeed!

In modern society, capitalism forms the foundational structure of how America operates. It can be argued that capitalism is a key reason America became the most powerful nation in history. While capitalism certainly has its benefits, there is a significant, often misunderstood, downside that I want to address today concerning a country that relies on capitalism for a long time. This issue is not about capitalism itself, which refers to a system where the economy and political power are driven by wealth. Nor is it aimed at capitalists, defined as individuals who own or manage wealth. Additionally, this isn't about capital itself, meaning wealth. The focus here is on the 90% of Americans who do not own or control capital (or wealth, if you prefer).

If you step back and objectively examine American society, you'll quickly notice the peculiar relationship between its citizens and the plutocrats—the wealthy individuals who control society. The mere use of the term "plutocrats" reveals a lot. The problem is that America is governed by the affluent class. American citizens resemble a bewildered herd, while the wealthy act as the shepherds. They set all the rules for us, and we seldom have the opportunity to participate in rule-making for ourselves, let alone for the elite. This is indeed an unusual relationship. It's important to understand that all wealth is generated through the labor of the people. We don't actually need the wealthy, but they cannot exist without us. I'm not criticizing wealth itself. Not at all. I'm merely highlighting the fact that ordinary men and women can maintain a functional society without the presence of powerful and wealthy individuals. They don't truly serve a proven purpose for the average person. I'm sure they would disagree with this perspective (smile).

I've said all of that to emphasize this point. As mentioned earlier, all wealth is generated through labor. In my view, wealth today is sustained in three ways:

1. The plutocrats have access to genuine knowledge, while the general public receives public education. This eliminates any competition to their wealth and power.

2. Through education and media propaganda, the plutocrats have convinced us that the system they've established (plutocracy) is beneficial for everyone, even though history shows it only serves their interests. This eradicates any chance of returning to a republic. Notice I didn't mention democracy, as that's their system.

3. From birth to death, the plutocrats have trained us to consume the products and services they provide. This ensures they maintain their position of power.

Since we live in a plutocracy, our role as citizens (non-capitalists) is to be consumers. The primary expectation is for us to purchase their products and services. Beyond consumption, there’s nothing else they want from us—until we die. This may sound harsh, but a brief investigation will confirm my claim. Recall in 2001 when America was in turmoil after 9/11? As the twin towers fell and 2,763 innocent Americans lost their lives (as reported by Google), what did George Bush Jr. advise Americans to do?

"As we work with Congress in the coming year to chart a new course in Iraq and strengthen our military to meet the challenges of the 21st century, we must also work together to achieve important goals for the American people here at home. This work begins with keeping our economy growing. … And I encourage you all to go shopping more."

It's a peculiar request until you realize that 70% of the United States' GDP is driven by consumer spending. In this capitalist society, our role is to spend money, incur debt, and continue consuming. Once you're too old to keep consuming, you're expected to pass away.

There must be more to life, and indeed there is. As a nation, we should emulate what capitalists have been doing for years: start businesses and generate our own income streams. This approach would make the "trickle-down theory" (give to the rich, and the poor will get the crumbs) and the "supply side economics" (supply the rich, and the poor will get what’s left) a beneficial reality.