Capitalism

In a restricted sense, the term capitalism describes an economic system based on private property and in which the means of production (land, raw materials, tools) do not belong to the owners or producers.  

Characteristics from a sociological point of view include:

1. Incessant search for profit through commercial exchange
2. The separation of producers and the means of production
3. The private (exclusive) and privative (depriving others) appropriation of wealth

The many social and environmental consequences of capitalism are discussed on the page: anti-capitalist.

“We are witnessing an explosive growth in the creation of financial wealth, increasingly disconnected from real production, and immense pressure from financial investors on companies to provide increased profitability."

This uncontrolled growth translates into an ever-increasing exploitation of people and nature.

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