Small steps to real global change

THERE is considerable admiration for those involved in the worldwide demonstrations against the excesses of capitalism, but the efforts of the demonstrators are futile.

Those with the economic power will continue to use that power to their own advantage, they are not concerned about the views of others. If the demonstrations get bigger and become a threat, then the powerful would use their wealth and power in what every way possible to overcome that threat. They will never voluntarily relinquish their power, although they may make soundings to the effect that they intend reforming the system.

These wealthy people have so much power and influence, that only a worldwide revolution could change the way things are, and that has not happened in the past, and will not in the future.

On an individual basis, we the ordinary people have very little power, but each of us has some power in relation to how we use our money. In this regard I am not only thinking of day-to-day spending, but also the use to which our pension funds and savings are put. If a sufficient number of people worldwide were to use their combined economic power in ways to support entities that have empirical evidence to show that they have a proven record of corporate social responsibility, then changes to the way we are being treated could be achieved.

We could build a new worldwide economic order that would respect the rights of the people who support it. This is a long-term proposal that requires a massive effort to achieve, but it is doable if organised properly.

Is anybody interested? Remember, mighty oaks from little acorns grow.

Brendan O’Donoghue

Killerig

Carlow