Forum Post: The REAL issue is still just a little under the surface...
Posted 12 years ago on Sept. 29, 2011, 11:42 p.m. EST by ashesmg
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The problem here is not greed. I believe greed is a symptom of a more subtle issue that has become so ingrained into our lives that we barely even recognize its force throughout the consciousness of humanity (specifically America). Of course there are going to be selfish jerks that steal and take gain off others' weaknesses. The bottom line is, we consumers are the ones fattening their wallets without thinking twice or having much of a choice. As capitalism and financial exchange are basically the ONLY functioning parts of our economy, how can anyone really understand what 'success' or 'freedom' mean? We (100% of us!) are all slaves to a system that completely depends on and revolves around money. I think people are anxious, angry and willing to take to the streets in protest because life has little meaning these days. Changing a law or charging Wall-Streeters with crimes will of course be a big win for the 99%..... But let's look deeper! It's not about 'winning' or making the 'bad guys' pay. I plan on participating at Occupy Portland next week. I sincerely hope this movement can be a catalyst for a radical dissection of our American system, a chance for a unification (because - let's face it - if you look at the big picture, we are all ONE), and a reawakening among the masses to create a new kind of society.
Thoughts?
-Ashley
Ashley - I like your post. Very cool. It's a sentiment not expressed often enough on here. I think there's room for both this https://occupywallst.org/forum/how-we-win/ and this https://occupywallst.org/forum/our-turn/ . I think we can use strong non-violent direct action to correct unjust system. This is a system that victimizes everyone. So, if we get it fixed, everyone will be free to be one and interact as human beings instead of playing artificial roles that disconnect us from each other. Playing these artificial roles benefits no one (including those who appear to benefit).
Ashley,
My thought is something known as economic justice. It falls under the broader category of social justice and is not a new idea. All of these issues come down to this: we, the 99% of Americans, want economic justice served. Why is economic justice NOT being served? There are a variety of reasons that have already been discussed here and all over the world -- even in the mainstream press (although I would argue not nearly enough).
I agree with your point about the meaning and goals of the movement. According to Martin Luther King, the aim during the Civil Rights era was to attack the evil system rather than individuals who happen to be caught up in the system. Therefore it becomes a struggle between justice and injustice -- not Americans vs. Americans. With this basic modus operandi, along with specific goals, emerging demands, and organization, the movement will grow and the system will change.
Well then by attacking financial districts throughout the country, isn't this movement going against Dr King's method?
Oh no. Definitely not. You need to go back and read "A Testament of Hope" or King's Autobiography again. Non-violent resistance is an active form of love.
Define attacking. I think that the overall philosophy adheres to nonviolent principles of direct action.
Well, from what I understand at this point, and I've only been reading up on the movement for a few hours now, people are pissed at the cause of the financial crisis and the fact that, instead of seeking justice, our government threw money at them. If I'm right about that, then the source of frustration is other Americans: American vs American
Of course there is frustration, but Dr. King and others felt that focusing exclusively on those individuals is a distraction from the real order of business, namely changing the system to make it more just and equitable. If criminal activity is proved in a court of law, should those individuals be punished? Yes, but the main work doesn't rest there. Ultimately it should seek changing a system that allows such behavior to exist in the first place -- as well as changing a system of economic injustice that has negatively affected so many people.
You may be interested in this thread:
https://occupywallst.org/forum/money-doesnt-exist-not-really/
there are assorted issues just under the surface.