The Invisible Hand

Capitalism and Socialism are more than just two ideologies, these are like two balancing forces of nature. There is a constant dual struggle going on between these two. Capitalism makes sure to make its presence felt in the desert of socialism like an oasis whereas Socialism often appears as a pearl island in the deep dark sea of capitalism.

Let's understand it via some examples. India mainly formed it's economic policies in decades post independence on socialist principles. From a scooter to hair oil to airline or bathroom cleaner was manufactured/run by the government. I remember one interesting incident where I had an opportunity to listen to a guest lecture by VP of marketing of Bajaj automobile. He said, " I learnt marketing after I became VP ( he became VP after LPG reforms of 1991) , before that I was a rationing officer.i simply used to decide who will get a scooter and when. Marketing was never seen the way I see it now. "

This anecdote clearly captures how strong socialism and socialistic principles were in Indian economy at that time. And during same time, Dhiru bhai Ambani was creating a company named Reliance that today is seen as a  tower of capitalism. Ambani is synonymous with capitalism and that's why a favourite word in our political discourse. It is interesting to know that Ambanis built the foundation of their empire during socialist era.

While above example shows how capitalism makes its presence felt during dominance of socialism, let's see how socialism beats all odds and raises it's head at on capitalism turf. Social media and internet is a product of capitalism. All social media companies and search engines are governed by profit seeking MNCs and corporates. Now the fruits of capitalism i.e. these widespread reach of internet and social media have brought socialism like never before.

You want to listen to a song, it's free on YouTube. You want to read any article/book just type it on Google.You want to have a video conferencing call, it's free on Zoom. You want to study any subject, there is a plethora of knowledge spead all over the internet. You want to have a peek into your favourite actor/actress life and see their pics, just follow them on Instagram. You want to know thoughts of your favourite thinker, follow him/her on Twitter. It's all free free free.. It's nothing but socialism brought by capitalism. And such level of democratization and decentralisation was never brought by socialism though it dreams of doing the same.

And it is not some new revelation. Adam Smith in his book 'Wealth of Nations' talked about a 'Invisible Hand' thoery. Though he talked about attaining results of socialism via capitalism, it is equally valid other way too. 

This ongoing battle between these two ideologies can be best captured in Joker's dialogue in The dark knight climax scene.  " You just couldn't let me go, could you? This is what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. You truly are incorruptible, aren't you, huh? You won't kill me out of some misplaced sense of self-righteousness, and I won't kill you because you're just too much fun. I think you and I are destined to do this forever. "