THE NIGERIAN CHALLENGE IS ABOUT CAPITALISM: How can we move away from capitalism?

Let's begin with a provocative assertion: Capitalism transcends mere economics; it is a philosophical and ideological force shaping our existence, environment, and understanding of humanity.

Capitalism, as it stands, thrives on ceaseless expansion, often at great cost. It perpetuates inequality, enabling the affluent to flourish while leaving the less fortunate at the mercy of a merciless market.

In its raw form, capitalism champions consumerism and equates possessions with success, obscuring our connection to one another, our harmony with nature, and our deeper purposes beyond material wealth.

We find ourselves ensnared in a cycle that glorifies wealth and power, disregarding the human toll — a toll measured in social injustice, environmental devastation, and a profound existential void.

I harbour no illusions about the complexity of capitalism; it is neither solely responsible for our world's challenges nor easily dismantled. To demonize capitalism oversimplifies the intricate economic, social, and political dynamics at play.

While capitalism has driven innovation and progress, lifting people from poverty and fuelling advancements, it has also exacerbated disparities and environmental crises.

Capitalism shapes more than our economy; it moulds our culture, worldview, and values. After centuries of global capitalist influence, imagining alternatives to our current system is daunting.

Yet worsening wealth inequality, the climate crisis, and other threats rooted in capitalism compel radical societal transformation.

The fundamental question remains: Can we break free from capitalism? Can we truly quit it? Not just by disengaging from its structures, but by fundamentally reshaping our values and consciousness.

This journey begins with a profound realization: to move beyond capitalism, we must liberate ourselves from its entrenched mindset. It requires more than economic reform; it demands a fundamental shift in how we define success, prioritize community, and envision our collective future.

First, we must challenge the assumption that greed and selfishness are inherent human traits.

In truth, humans naturally exhibit cooperation, compassion, and social responsibility. It is capitalist competition that amplifies individualistic instincts. 

By designing systems that appeal to our ethical core, rather than our transactional impulses, we can unleash our altruistic nature and forge a path toward a post-capitalist society.