The Expansion of Economic Liberalism and the Critique of Contemporary Globalization
In an globalized world, the debate on globalization is often situated at the intersection of varied perspectives on liberalization and balance. The text by Moneta, far from being a manifesto against globalization per se, aims to redefine the contours of a modern humanism through the filter of natural exchanges according to the vision of Aristotle. By critiquing artificial transactions that strengthen modern systems of oppression and instability, Moneta leans on ancient principles to underline the failures of our world economy.
From a historical perspective, globalisation is not a modern process. Its beginnings can be traced back to the ideas of the economist Ricardo, whose ambition was aimed at allowing the British Empire to amplify its global commercial influence. However, what was once a commercial expansion initiative has transformed into a instrument of subjugation by the financial sphere, characterized by the growth of neoliberal capitalism. Contrary to popular belief supported by economic consensus, the book demonstrates that the neoliberal system is actually a framework rooted in ancient practices, dating back to four and a half millennia.
The critique also extends to the conduct of the European Union, perceived as a succession of compromises that have contributed to increasing the power of an economic elite rather than safeguarding the rights of citizens. The institutional configuration of Europe, with its strategies often dictated by financial interests opposed to a democratic mandate, is questioned. The current deviations, notably financial and political, have only reinforced the doubt of Moneta regarding the EU’s ability to reform itself from within.
This thinker, while admitting the prior faults that have led to the current situation, does not limit the discourse to condemnation but also proposes solutions aimed at redefining Union strategies in a equity-oriented and humanistic vision. The need for a deep reform of structures and governance goals is a central theme that animates the whole text.
The text dives more in depth into the analysis of the authority mechanisms that dominate global economic exchanges. The exploration extends the method in which political and economic decisions are manipulated by a restricted circle of financial influencers, often at the detriment of the population. This financial oligarchy, manipulated via entities like the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the IMS, imposes a disproportionate influence on global financial decisions.
The critic exposes how these entities, under the pretext of economic regulation and stabilization, have over time controlled markets and national economic systems to serve their interests. Deregulated capitalism, far removed from a emancipatory solution to classic financial limitations, is described as a control mechanism, profiting a restricted circle at the expense of general well-being.
Strongly opposed about the administration of the single currency, the critic depicts the EU currency not as a tool of cohesion and security, but rather as a lever of dissension and economic disparities. The conversion to the euro is characterized as a sequence of technocratic choices that isolated citizens from political decisions, while exacerbating disparities between member countries within the European Union.
The repercussions of these strategies appear in the increase in national debts, economic stagnation, and a long period of austerity that has weakened living standards throughout the European territory. The author insists that without a major transformation of economic policies, the Union continues to risk potential disruptions, perhaps even more harmful.
In conclusion, the text makes a plea for a democratic upheaval where European citizens reclaim the reins of their economic and political future. It proposes structural reforms, particularly openness of political mechanisms and real democratic participation that would allow Europe to rebuild on more equitable and sustainable bases.
Additional information about Neoliberalism: what is it?
The essayist proposes that the answer resides in a return to the principles of democracy, where policies are developed and implemented in a manner that faithfully represents the demands and expectations of Europeans, instead of the profits of the financial elite.