Corporate Corruption And The Special Interest State
Regulatory Capture at the FCC
Rosen, David
http://www.counterpunch.org/2013/05/24/corporate-corruption-the-special-interest-state/
Date Written: 2013-05-24
Publisher: Counter Punch
Year Published: 2013
Resource Type: Article
Cx Number: CX15070
With Tom Wheeler's nomination, expect pro big-telecom policies such as ending net neutrality, further industry consolidation, limiting meaningful competition and increasing user fees, among other policies.
Abstract:
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Excerpt:
Under postmodern capitalism, Americans – as citizens and consumers — are required to subsidize corporate gain as well as the private gluttony of the ruling class. As citizens, our taxes subsidize private capital in an increasing number of ways, including the rigged tax structure, government payments, right-offs and tax abatements. As consumers, we are over-charged at the cash register, are hit with exorbitant banking charges for loans and credit cards, and pay all-too-much for inferior telecom services.
The presidency, the Congress and the regulatory agencies – let alone state and local governments — are political marketplaces in which influence is bought and sold. Pres. Dwight Eisenhower identified one post-World War II manifestation of this phenomenon, the military-industrial-political complex. Most Americans know the game is rigged and they have almost no chance of influencing public policy or regulation.
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