TPP and these other trade deals show the end result of capitalism...

[GoneOffShore]

29. Here's a take on the TPP from across the Atlantic.

TPP: 'Scary' US-Pacific trade deal published – you're going to freak out when you read it

'Cos all those pitchforks you bought will go to waste

And for those who won't bother to because TL/DNR - Here's the conclusion:

In short, it's a trade deal. Overall, it's a good deal. Nothing in it will destroy the world or bring in a new era of peace and prosperity. But it will simplify things, and that is, in the end, a good thing.

From a purely US perspective, the best pitch for the deal comes from President Obama who summed it up thus: "The TPP means that America will write the rules of the road in the 21st century. When it comes to Asia, one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, the rulebook is up for grabs. And if we don’t pass this agreement – if America doesn’t write those rules – then countries like China will. And that would only threaten American jobs and workers and undermine American leadership around the world."

The big problem with the TPP is not really the TPP itself; it's the fact that it was the first big trade deal drawn up in the internet era. As such, the highly secretive process for creating it is out of keeping with the times.

There is some irony that a deal designed to bring the world into the 21st century was developed through a 20th century process. But as all the criticism over the next few weeks will make plain: change may be difficult and painful, but it has to happen. ®