David Korten: Assessing Capitalism's Impact on Democracy and Society

The transcript discusses the lack of accountability among Wall Street players, contrasting traditional conservative values with modern ones. It critiques globalization driven by corporate interests, emphasizing the need for local economies. The influence of corporations on agriculture and the distortion of Adam Smith's market ideals are examined. The transcript concludes by highlighting capitalism's threat to democracy, noting the concentration of economic power and its impact on political systems.

What is the main criticism of Wall Street players mentioned in the first section?

• Their support for small businesses

• Their failure to apologize for economic damage

• Their investment in renewable energy

• Their lack of innovation

How does the speaker differentiate between traditional and modern conservatism?

• Traditional conservatism supports monarchy, while modern conservatism supports democracy.

• Traditional conservatism values local control, while modern conservatism supports globalization.

• Traditional conservatism is more liberal than modern conservatism.

• Traditional conservatism is focused on environmental issues, while modern conservatism is not.

What is the proposed counter to corporate globalization?

• Strengthening national borders

• A globalization of people power

• Promoting corporate mergers

• Increasing tariffs on imports

According to the speaker, what do Africans most need?

• Access to luxury goods

• Increased foreign investment

• Control over their own agriculture

• More exports to Western countries

What role do the World Bank and IMF play according to the speaker?

• They promote corporate interests

• They encourage small businesses

• They support local economies

• They focus on environmental conservation

What is the speaker's view on the logic of prioritizing industrial development over agriculture?

• It supports local farmers

• It leads to economic growth

• It undermines food security

• It is beneficial for all countries

How does Adam Smith's ideal market differ from today's global economy?

• Smith supported corporate monopolies

• Smith's market was local and moral

• Smith advocated for globalization

• Smith believed in government control

What is the main threat of capitalism to democracy according to the speaker?

• It promotes free trade

• It concentrates economic power

• It encourages innovation

• It supports small businesses

What historical context does the speaker provide about the founding of the U.S.?

• It was founded on environmental conservation

• It was founded on socialist principles

• It was founded as a plutocracy

• It was founded as a democracy

What does the speaker suggest about the psychological profile of some Wall Street players?

• They are environmentally conscious

• They are focused on community welfare

• They fit the profile of a psychopath

• They are highly empathetic