The Hidden Anger Behind the Release of Monopoly for Millennials
When Hasbro released 'Monopoly for Millennials', there was a great outpouring of anger. People were upset, but the reasons go beyond mere generational differences. It's a symptom of a broader issue: the American capitalistic system is failing most people, not just the latest generation. Let's explore why this backlash is more profound than meets the eye.
The Systematic Issue
People's anger over the Monopoly game can be traced to a deeper dissatisfaction with the economic and political structures that govern their lives. The oligarchy-controlled Congress often passes legislation that further concentrates wealth at the top and leaves the working class behind. A glaring example is the CARES Act, passed in the spring of 2020, widely recognized as the largest upward wealth transfer in human history. This systemic failure makes people question the fairness and efficacy of the current system.
The Divide and Conquer Strategy
The game's controversial rebranding is but a tool in larger, more insidious strategies. Marketing and PR professionals use issues like generational divides to distract from the real problem: the privileged class. The 'divide and conquer' tactic encourages people to fight each other rather than unite against the shared oppression. For instance, former President Donald Trump successfully harnessed people's despair and turned it into anger, subsequently aligning with hate groups to maintain a divided populace.
The Declining Empire
The United States is currently witnessing an empire in decline, one that is dangerously close to sparking a conflict reminiscent of the Arab Spring. The escalation of civil tensions is partly due to the desperation of people who feel abandoned by a system that meant to uplift them. Through the lens of history, economic and political systems often bike from boom to bust; the current state of affairs should not come as a surprise.
Understanding and Becoming Involved
To truly address this issue, it's crucial to delve into the underlying causes. Here are some recommendations to enhance understanding and participation:
Read Capitalism Hits the Fan by Richard Wolff. Wolff is an economics professor who explains the intricacies of capitalism in an easily digestible manner. Explore the works of Edward Bernays. His book, The Engineer of Consent, is a seminal work on influencing public opinion and the psychology of propaganda. Watch the documentary Highjacking Humanity. Though it has faced censorship, this documentary provides a comprehensive view of the issues at play and suggests actionable solutions.Activities to Empower Change
Aside from knowledge, it's important to take action to effect change:
Organize work-coops. Richard Wolff advocates for transitioning all businesses into coops where workers own and manage the enterprise. This form of democracy in the workplace can be a powerful tool for empowerment. Support progressive policies. Engage with local and national politicians to advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of the majority, not the privileged few. Educate others. Share information about the issues with friends and family, bridging the generational divide and fostering solidarity.People are birthed into a society where dependency on centralized systems is deeply ingrained. It's a system that perpetuates inequality and alienation. Instead of blaming others, it's vital to seek solutions that can empower the people.
Ultimately, the release of 'Monopoly for Millennials' is a stark reflection of a broken system. By understanding and engaging with the underlying issues, we can work towards a more equitable and just society.