Capitalism – The Sense of Morality

This poem of mine was initially written in the 80s

at the time when Australia was plagued with economic

recession, ‘Bottom of the Harbour Schemes’, political leadership struggle

between John Howard & Andrew Peacock . . . nothing like the scale & magnitude

of the present global economic crisis.

“Capitalism creates a rational frame of mind which, having destroyed the moral authority of so many other institutions, in the end turns against its own.” – Joseph A. Schumpeter

CAPITALISM is good: it generates a lot of food

Growth and progress begin to shoot.

Materialism and consumerism grow

Discontentment and greed get out of control.

Disillusionment and immorality are sins of the century

When aims and energy are directed essentially towards prosperity.

Ethics and morality are no longer strong

Thus the nature of things just go wrong.

The song of the century hits your mind:

“When you hang your soul on the line,

Is it worth the price you pay for the money you make?”

Certainly creates the disillusionment for the day.

Sins occur here and there and everywhere

All sense of value and morality fly through the air.

Delinquency and street kids multiply in folds

When every action and freedom can never be told.

There is decay in every facet of society.

Nothing good can be guaranteed.

Fast Buck rules in politics as in business.

Loyalty, morality, trust and faith are silenced by greediness.

We are drifting away from the proper way,

Indulging in escapism, sex, drugs and alcohol as we sway.

In our search for fulfilment

We are lost in our apparent contentment.

There’s a way and it’s God’s way:

Search your heart and soul and pray.

There can be no other way

Having Jesus in your heart will not make you sway.

Paul Chong

A Chinese by Descent

An Australian by Consent