Posted on 10/29/2013 1:15:48 PM PDT by amnestynone
Historically, progressives were seen as partisans for the people, eager to help the working and middle classes achieve upward mobility even at expense of the ultrarich. But in California, and much of the country, progressivism has morphed into a political movement that, more often than not, effectively squelches the aspirations of the majority, in large part to serve the interests of the wealthiest.
Primarily, this modern-day program of class warfare is carried out under the banner of green politics. The environmental movement has always been primarily dominated by the wealthy, and overwhelmingly white, donors and activists. But in the past, early progressives focused on such useful things as public parks and open space that enhance the lives of the middle and working classes. Today, green politics seem to be focused primarily on making life worse for these same people.
In this sense, today’s green progressives, notes historian Fred Siegel, are most akin to late 19th century Tory radicals such as William Wordsworth, William Morris and John Ruskin, who objected to the ecological devastation of modern capitalism, and sought to preserve the glories of the British countryside. In the process, they also opposed the “leveling” effects of a market
Only time and a VERY large-scale seismic event can fix California.
As a contractor in California, I view the most direct result of the Green movement affecting individuals, as the transferring of more money and hi-tech lifestyles to the wealthy.
Most working class and poor people can only look on with envy as the wealthy get subsidized to buy high tech solar systems and equipment and even cars for themselves and their lifestyles.
I agree and to think that Joel Kotkin is a nominal Democrat.
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