Economics, Explained by Two Cows

Treyton DeVore
February 21, 2023
This concept was created by NewstalkZB. Creatorbread does not own these graphics.

Oftentimes, simpler is better.

So these are the 5 core economic structures of different countries, as explained by two cows:

Source

Communism

On paper, communism can look like a viable path for a country.

In reality, it doesn't always play out the way it was intended. Individual freedoms are often limited and the economy is solely in the hands of the government.

Countries that use forms of communism in today's world:

  • China
  • Cuba
  • Laos
  • Vietnam
  • North Korea

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Source

Socialism

"Socialism is a political worldview that prioritizes the social/government ownership of the means of production rather than ownership by private individuals or corporations. It’s more geared towards public satisfaction rather than the accumulation of profit."

Even though America is primarily a capitalist society, we have aspects of socialism everywhere. From public transportation to government assistance, the idea is that private organizations don't own everything and profits are shared across the board.

But if it was as simple as that, I think it'd be much more accepted..

Some countries that use socialism in 2023:

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Source

Facism

"You have 2 cows. The State takes both and sells you some milk."

It's like communism/dictatorship, with a hint of capitalism.

In the cow example, instead of the government taking everything and giving some back, they take it and sell it back.

Countries that claim to use facism in 2023:

  • None

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Source

Bureaucratism

"You have 2 cows. The State takes both, shoots one, milks the other and then throws the milk away."

Bureaucratic governments are known to be inefficient. With a focus on policies & paperwork, there's usually little freedom for citizens, minimal advancement, and officials typically aren't elected by a whole country's vote.

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Source

Traditional Capitalism

To me, pure capitalism makes the most sense. If done without government involvement (which is nearly impossible), I feel like it reflects our earliest days of trade & barter. If you have something of value and someone wants it, buy it or trade for it. If you have enough of it and you've taken care of myself, you can give it away.

The issue is that it allows for unlimited amounts of greed.

As we've all seen, people will take that to the fullest extent..

‍(see: American Greed & the Sackler Family)

Some countries that use capitalism:

  • United States
  • Germany
  • Singapore
  • New Zealand
  • Switzerland
  • Australia

The Takeaway

There's no "perfect" economic structure.

Why?

Because humans are involved, every time.

We're flawed pieces of flesh.

Your best bet?

Find personal happiness & independent wealth, whatever that looks like to you.

Don't rely on anyone for anything.

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