Mediaboss Marketing

To the Editor:

I believe in socialism. There, I said it. Now before anyone erupts, let me also say that I believe in capitalism. I believe that either of these forces in its extreme is a negative. Unchecked capitalism is just as dangerous as unchecked socialism. These two viewpoints are the check and balance on each other.

I personally lean toward a liberal, progressive nature and fight for whatever moves us forward spiritually, intellectually and morally.

Capitalism is very responsible for greatness of this country. Human, free-willed creativity and the ability to own the fruits of one's labor has brought a level of ingenuity to the world never before imagined.

However, socialism is just as responsible for where we are. Socialism is the force that resists the greed that is inherent in pure capitalism. We have seen far too many times the damage that unchecked capitalism can do. There should be a "for the good of the people" consideration taken in the view of capitalism.

There are many innovations, ideas, and advancements that are repressed in the name of profit. For example, look how far the Internet has come in just 20 years and yet in over 100 years we can't get past the combustible engine. That is because profiteers don't want options that hurt their bottom line so they repress and attack anything that is different from the status quo.

Capitalism has many virtues, but its best interests lie in profit for shareholders and not in the advancement of civilization. That is its function. At least government's function is about the people and is accountable to us.

We do need capitalism to keep government in check, but we also need socialism to keep capitalism in check. Extremism is not the answer. Let's move society forward, not just business forward.

WILLIAM ROTH

Pitman

More:
Socialism, capitalism together provide a balance: Letter