Lesson 4: The Bigger, The Better

In human action there are very few coincidences. What appears and what really is are two entirely different things: often there is a discrepancy between the ‘common knowledge’ explanations and the reality when observed and studied carefully.

For example, why it seems to be the case that large corporations, financial and public institutions together with politicians are in a different league and almost play by entirely different set of rules than the rest of the society? Because that is how our current political and economical system has been set up and evolved over the decades. It is not a fair and just system—there are no equal rules and opportunities for everyone. The odds have been tilted favourably towards the existing establishment and large corporations. The people behind these institutions are reluctant and afraid of change like most of the population. They prefer status quo to new entrants and rules that may jeopardise their existing wellbeing and social status. They are not willing to play by the same rules as the rest of the population has to. Open competition and transparency favour the competent and able, which is bad news for the incumbents and they fight against it.

The establishment is protecting the mighty and powerful. They are not helping the newcomers to offer superior products, services, and innovations for the benefit of the rest of the society. Don’t get fooled by the political rhetoric and keep your eyes firmly in the ball—in the real actions and outcomes. Deeds speak louder than any pep talk and it seems that where is the talk there is the lack.

Naturally this is not very good news for young people. They are placed in a hostile environment where they are considered as threats and troublemakers more than as valuable assets and resources enabling better future for everyone. Just observe the compulsorily pension legislation, labour law, small firm legislation, and every bit of government subsidies handed out to new or small enterprises vs. large corporations. It does not take a rocket scientist to realise that young people and small (or new) companies are not treated equally in respect to aging population or large institutions. The existing state of affairs is almost every time preferred over any changes that make the current status quo more vulnerable and exposed to circumstances that would favour merit, openness, transparency, and free competition. And let’s not forget that certain things and situation are way easier to handle and accomplish with adequate resources than with very limited or none at all. Money talks and the rest walk—especially with public affairs.

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