Thomas Frank
The Quote in Other Words
In the past, when the market was highly revered and private capital was seen as a powerful force, the concept of privatizing transportation infrastructure such as highways and airports seemed logical.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote highlights the shift in societal values from the worship of private capital to a more critical examination of the role of privatization in public infrastructure. The idea of privatizing highways and airports may have made sense in a time when the market was seen as an infallible force, but now we must consider the potential consequences of such actions.
Privatization can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency, as private companies prioritize profit over public interest. Additionally, privatization can exacerbate existing inequalities, as those who can afford to pay for access to privatized infrastructure will have an advantage over those who cannot.
Instead of blindly embracing privatization, we must carefully consider the potential consequences and prioritize the needs of the public over the interests of private companies. Public infrastructure should be seen as a shared resource that benefits everyone, rather than a commodity to be bought and sold for profit.