"The feudal world is a remnant that still hangs from our representative democracy. In many ways representative democracy is the half-way hybrid of feudalism and true democracy. We rely on a patrician class of political operators to work in our best interests, when in reality they are mainly working in their own self-interest and the special interests of their patrons. A more direct democracy would see be form of republicanism akin to ancient Athens where all citizens voted directly on bills or the young USA where the voice of the citizenry was a direction for action by their elected representatives. The attack on workers and education is an attempt to stave off this next logical step in social and political evolution to a more direct and effective democracy.
This is why religious conservatives and economic libertarians attack the means of sustaining a viable middle class. Poor education dramatically reduces opportunities for employment and advancement, and hamstrings innovations that may threaten the status quo. Cutting health care forces families to spend more of their income and time on caring for sick or elderly family members. Failing to invest in effective public transport creates a class divide between those who can afford a vehicle to access job opportunities and those who are trapped in a cycle of poverty due to lack of mobility.
Even now the decision not to build a national, equal-access broadband infrastructure is picking winners and losers. Those with fibre connections are already enjoying higher house valuations. Once again the inner cities will have the advantages, while the suburbs and regional cities – the tradition heartland of the working and middle classes – are relegated to second class citizens. How long until cuts to education, health, penalty rates and minimum wage see further collapse of employment options and standards of living in Australia?"
excerpt from Buzzzt Article
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