Feudalism, emerging after the collapse of the Roman Empire, maintained an exploitative relationship between different classes.
The rise of capitalism during the Industrial Revolution in Europe was facilitated by Protestantism and the transition to a more commercialized society.
Global capitalism, while dominant, also leads to growing social inequality and concentration of wealth, with technology automating various aspects of society.
Deep dives
Collapse of Roman Empire and Rise of Feudalism
The collapse of the Roman Empire led to the emergence of feudalism, with local power structures persisting in cities while military aristocracy dominated the outskirts. Feudalism, although a step away from slave society, still maintained an exploitative relationship between different classes.
Industrial Revolution and Capitalism
The Industrial Revolution in Europe marked the rise of capitalism, facilitated by Protestantism and the transition from a traditional medieval pace of life to a more commercialized and abstract society. Capitalism thrived through innovations, concentrated capital, and competition between states.
Globalization and Technology
Global capitalism, with its complex supply chains and technological advancements, has become a dominant system. However, it also leads to growing social inequality and concentration of wealth, with technology automating many aspects of society.
Collapse of Global Capitalism
The current global capitalist system faces potential collapse as it reaches its limits of resource extraction and environmental degradation. Local power structures are likely to persist, but the central system will break down, creating localized trade networks controlled by powerful actors.
Hope for Human Liberation
Despite the challenges, there is hope for liberation from the class-based capitalist system. Future generations may rise against the prevailing order, overthrowing the ruling elites and creating a more equitable and harmonious society.
Matt Christman goes off live on http://www.twitch.tv/chapotraphouse
Topics: Matt Christman's history of Civilization. Next book: The China Boom by by Ho-fung Hung
Chris' note: Matt's audio issues continue to astound me. HOW is the audio switching between phasing and not randomly when he's not doing anything to the mic or settings? WHAT is going on here. Baffling.
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