Revenge of the billionaires: How an oligarchy of the morbidly rich can take down democracy

[alwaysinasnit]

https://www.alternet.org/2019/11/revenge-of-the-billionaires-how-an-oligarchy-of-the-morbidly-rich-can-take-down-democracy/

Great read by Thom Hartmann

Snip...

If we are, indeed, on the brink of a second Civil War, it’s already being waged as a “cold war,” with the occasional armed skirmish being provoked by the so-called alt-right movement. And, as in the past, this will be a war by the very, very rich against the rest of America.

This is not the first time we’ve faced such a crisis as a nation.

Each time, forces of massive accumulated or inherited wealth have nearly succeeded in taking full control of our nation, replacing a democracy, where the will of the people is accomplished through their elected representatives, with a form of government where most government functions reinforce the power, wealth and control of the morbidly rich.

Snip...

For oligarchy to totally take down democracy, only three things are initially needed:

- Control of (or substantial influence over) a critical portion of the media
- Legalization of bribery of public officials, so oligarchs can achieve majority control of the legislative process
- Control of the most critical parts of the court system so they can control legal processes

A fourth element, once the oligarchy is well established, is the formation of a police state, principally using selective prosecution against those agitating for a return to democracy.

Snip...

[Newest Reality]

1. K&R

[Newest Reality]

2. This is an important topic!

One must consider the technology of the 4th Industrial Revolution and how it will facilitate the process for a technocratic Oligarchy. Note that there is enough substantial information and research about this to assure the warnings are not either sensationalism or mere "conspiracy theories".

We have seen this threat a few times before in this country alone. It is real. It has been in progress for decades. It is coming to a head. This time, it could stick and that's the end of democracy. Information and awareness are vital.

[Hermit-The-Prog]

3. this is where we are. now, where are we going?

[JudyM]

4. This is chilling in its demonstration of just how close we are to the precipice.

[orangecrush]

5. KICK

[rownesheck]

6. There are more of us than them.

Once it gets bad enough, the oligarchs will pay dearly. We will burn their castles to the ground, string them up in the town squares, and spit on their lifeless bodies. They know this.

I know it's a horrific thought, but it's true. You'll never silence the voice of the voiceless.

[FiveGoodMen]

7. If the military sides with them, you're in for a VERY rude awakening.

[FiveGoodMen]

8. What happens when it gets to 88 mph?