RE: The paradox of being “anti-capitalist” in a capitalist society
The nice thing about Steemit is that there seems to be a lot of very high-functioning individuals of many persuasions here.
The "self-interest" issue is often a sticking point for me due to the tight definitions many place on it. It is ALSO in my self-interest to be in support of UBI and making sure everyone in my neighborhood is clothed and fed... because (self-interest angle) if they ARE, they are less likely to break into my house and steal my stuff. The conventional Libertarian/Austrian philosophy doesn't recognize that as "self serving," but I disagree. A peaceful society serves me better.
Politically, I suppose that puts me in a slightly odd place: I am all in favor of community social empowerment but less in favor of community social handouts.
I tend to think that the more we internalize our interconnectiveness, the more selflish interests become a moot point, not even worth mentioning. I’m actually ok with handouts but only when the community can afford them.
I’m actually ok with handouts when the community or individual can afford them, but It’s certainly more meaningful to teach someone to fish than giving them a few fish. This is why I’m very hesitant to give my money to charities unless they are small scale and I know exactly what they aren’t doing.