Why Corporations Profit from Crises and Conflict
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Chapter 1: The Profiteering Machine
In times of crisis, it often seems that corporations thrive while the rest of society suffers. This phenomenon is not merely coincidental; it is a systematic aspect of how these entities operate.
"The only rule is 'line go up.'"
When arms dealers boast about the financial benefits of war, it is both shocking and telling. The same can be said for pharmaceutical companies discussing the advantages of a pandemic. While it may seem distasteful, the reality is that making money during such times is a core part of their operations.
Section 1.1: War Profits
The CEO of Raytheon, Greg Hayes, recently made headlines for his chilling remarks regarding the war in Ukraine and other conflicts, viewing them as lucrative opportunities for arms sales. This sentiment is echoed across the industry, where the suffering of others translates into financial gain.
As wars rage on, the focus for companies like Raytheon is on their bottom line. The financial implications of conflict are starkly clear; the more devastation, the higher their profits soar.
Section 1.2: The Revolving Door
The relationship between corporations and government officials is a troubling cycle. For instance, President Biden received substantial campaign contributions from major defense contractors, highlighting the blurred lines between public service and corporate interests.
Chapter 2: The Pharmaceutical Paradox
In this video, Robert Kiyosaki discusses the unsettling connection between economic downturns and the rise of war, suggesting that such events are leveraged to stimulate further financial gain.
Another pressing concern is the pharmaceutical industry's role during the pandemic. The CFO of Pfizer candidly acknowledged that transitioning from a pandemic to an endemic presents new financial opportunities for the company.
Kiyosaki's second video warns about the brewing storm in the global economy, emphasizing the precarious nature of our current situation.
Section 2.1: The Drug Dilemma
Pharmaceutical companies have profited immensely from the pandemic, and there appears to be little incentive for them to resolve the crisis. The business model is clear: the public funds the development of vaccines and treatments, only to purchase them back at inflated prices.
Subsection 2.1.1: The Profit Motive
The corporate mindset is singularly focused on shareholder value, often at the expense of human lives. The staggering profits made during the pandemic underscore this reality. Companies like Pfizer are primarily concerned with their investors, not with the millions in need of their products.
Section 2.2: Corporations as Non-Human Entities
Understanding the nature of corporations is crucial. They are not human; they are legal entities with their own set of priorities that often neglect the well-being of society. Executives serve the corporation, prioritizing profit over ethical considerations.
The Capitalist Perspective
As Milton Friedman articulated, corporations often mask their true nature with humanizing marketing strategies. The core of their existence is to increase shareholder wealth, regardless of the societal impact.
The Existential Conflict
Ultimately, the problem lies not in a few bad actors but within the entire capitalist system. As corporations continue to flourish at the expense of human life and dignity, it becomes clear that they operate in a realm far removed from the concerns of the average person.
In conclusion, the reason corporations are profiting from crises like pandemics and wars is that they lack the fundamental characteristics that define humanity. Their survival is predicated on exploiting these situations, leaving the real cost to be borne by those who suffer.