Wednesday, November 11, 2009
People across the globe are not happy with capitalism these days, favoring more government regulation and ownership of industries, according to a survey conducted by the BBC. Even in the United States, a majority of respondents (53%) expressed support for more reforms and government involvement—as long as it doesn’t extend into Washington taking over the means of production. Almost the same number (52%) said the government should be less involved in the ownership and control of major industries.
After compiling the 29,000 responses received from 27 countries, the BBC poll found only 11% believed capitalism is doing fine and should be left alone. Fifty-one percent favor regulation and reform.
In 15 of the nations surveyed, a majority of people favor government ownership of industries. Strong majorities were recorded in Russia (77%), Ukraine (75%), Brazil (64%), Indonesia (65%), and France (57%).
-Noel Brinkerhoff
Summary: Wide Dissatisfaction with Capitalism—Twenty Years after Fall of Berlin Wall (BBC World Service)
Survey Results: Wide Dissatisfaction with Capitalism — Twenty Years after Fall of Berlin Wall (BBC World Service) (PDF)
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