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Britain Quote by Timothy Garton Ash

“What is the elephant in all our rooms? It is the global triumph of capitalism. Democracy is fiercely disputed. Freedom is under threat even in old-established democracies such as Britain. Western supremacy is on the skids. But everyone does capitalism. Americans and Europeans do it. Indians do it…” quote by Timothy Garton Ash
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“What is the elephant in all our rooms? It is the global triumph of capitalism. Democracy is fiercely disputed. Freedom is under threat even in old-established democracies such as Britain. Western supremacy is on the skids. But everyone does capitalism. Americans and Europeans do it. Indians do it. Russian oligarchs and Saudi princes do it. Even Chinese communists do it... Karl Marx would be turning in his grave. Or perhaps not, since some of his writings eerily foreshadowed our era of globalised capitalism. His prescription failed but his description was prescient.”

Timothy Garton Ash

About This Quote

Source Book: The Global Rise of Capitalism, 2020

Capitalism’s dominance shapes politics and democracy worldwide, challenging traditional freedoms and prompting debates about its future.

In simple terms: Capitalism is everywhere, affecting freedom and democracy.

Key Takeaway

Critically assess capitalism’s impact on society.

Themes

politics economics democracy globalization freedom

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

historical sociopolitical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • activism
  • education
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

systemic inequality political discourse environmental impact social cohesion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What alternatives exist beyond capitalism?
  • How can democracy survive under capitalist pressures?
A Different Perspective

Marx’s warnings may not fully apply to today’s complex systems.

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