Whether capitalism and democracy are still compatible depends a lot on how each is defined, how they areA practiced, and where you are looking. In the West, especially the US and Western Europe, capitalism and democracy grew together. This period saw the rise of the welfare state—free markets coexisted with public education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure. In the U.S., the "American Dream" was built on the idea that capitalism gave everyone a shot, and democracy protected their rights Here are some pros and cons regarding the compatibility between capitalism and democracy! Both systems theoretically value individual rights—capitalism through economic freedom, and democracy through political freedom. Capitalism thrives on market competition, while democracy relies on electoral competition. Both are mechanisms for accountabil Both systems are flexible and can evolve—democracy through new laws and leaders, capitalism through new technologies and business models. Capitalism tends to generate economic inequality. Over time, wealth can translate into political power, threatening democratic equality. Large corporations can wield significant influence over political decisions (e.g., lobbying, campaign financing), undermining democratic processes. Markets often reward short-term profits, while democracies (ideally) look out for long-term public good—climate change being a major example. If people feel the capitalist system leaves them behind economically, they may disengage from democracy or support authoritarian alternatives.

capitalism, democracy, political philosophy, economic history

agronomy

Presentation: poster