[Strangelet]

I have problems with presumptions that

1) the free market is inherently and exploitative system, more so than socialism. A free market is a negative system in the sense that, while socialism relies on a government maintained apparatus, free market strives for the removal of it. That is not to say the free market == anarchy. It simply reduces the role of government to an objective referee, enforcing rules that aren't meant to favor any particular lobby.

2) the free market == laissez-faire capitalism. The free market is meant to be the freedom of minds to develop whatever system they choose from the grass roots level. Several instances of strong micro-socialistic organizations have existed in the most lawless sections of the U.S. in the 19th century. See law of consecration.

3) capitalism, not colonialism or mercantilism (strong government/business partnership. See east india company) is what has kept the 3rd world in such a shit mess. Seriously people. lets look at this a little closer. You got coke and paris hilton on one hand, British Petroleum on the other. who's getting the prize here?