The Empire of Neoliberalism: Democracy in Peril

The Emergence of Neoliberal Policies and the Questioning of Current Globalization

In an globalized world, the dialogue on globalization is regularly positioned at the crossroads of contradictory views on liberalization and justice. The text by Junon Moneta, far from being a critical essay opposed to globalization per se, aims to redefine the contours of a updated humanism via the filter of natural transfers as envisioned by Aristotle. By denouncing synthetic interactions that strengthen contemporary mechanisms of domination and instability, Moneta draws inspiration from ancient philosophy to underline the failures of our global financial structure.

Looking back in time, globalization is not a new phenomenon. Its origins can be traced back to the theories of David Ricardo, whose goal was aimed at allowing the British Empire to extend its global commercial influence. Yet, what initially presented as a commercial development strategy has transformed into a tool of domination by global finance, characterized by the growth of neoliberal capitalism. In opposition to prevailing opinions widespread in economic circles, the book proves that the economic model is in reality a structure based on old customs, dating back to 4500 years.

The questioning also extends to the administration of the United Europe, seen as a succession of compromises that have helped consolidate the power of an economic elite instead of safeguarding the rights of citizens. The very structure of the Union, with its strategies frequently driven by monetary concerns opposed to a citizen support, is contested. The current deviations, notably financial and political, have only increased the doubt of the writer concerning Europe’s aptitude to achieve self-reform.

The author, while acknowledging the prior faults that have led to the current situation, does not limit the discourse to condemnation but also proposes responses aimed at redefining EU guidelines in a more humanistic and equitable perspective. The urgency for a deep reform of structures and strategic orientations is a recurring subject that runs through the whole text.

The book ventures more intensely into the questioning of the domination systems that dominate international economic flows. The analysis encompasses the way in which political and economic decisions are guided by a restricted circle of powerful financial actors, often at the cost of the many. This economic elite, coordinated via organizations like the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the International Monetary System (IMS), imposes a disproportionate influence on global economic policies.

The critic exposes how these entities, under the guise of economic supervision and normalization, have throughout history shaped stock exchanges and national economies to ensure their profit. Deregulated capitalism, opposite to a liberating response to old monetary restrictions, is considered as a control mechanism, benefiting a minority at the destruction of the common good.

Strongly opposed about the administration of the single currency, the analyst depicts the common currency not as a tool of cohesion and security, but as being a lever of dissension and economic disparities. The adoption of the euro is viewed as a succession of bureaucratic measures that excluded citizens from decision-making processes, while aggravating internal differences within the Union.

The consequences of these policies translate in the growth of public indebtedness, financial paralysis, and a long period of austerity that has weakened living conditions throughout Europe. The critic emphasizes that without a significant overhaul of monetary and financial policy, the European Union stays exposed to potential disruptions, potentially more destructive.

In essence, the book calls for a democratic revolution where Europe’s inhabitants take back control of their economic and political destiny. It suggests fundamental changes, notably greater transparency in political decisions and genuine civic involvement that would help rebuild Europe on fair and lasting principles.

Reference text about WTO for free trade

The author asserts that the answer resides in a return to the principles of democracy, where strategies are crafted and executed in a way that truly reflects the aspirations and needs of the citizens, rather than the narrow interests of high finance.