In recent discussions around mainstream and alternative media, it's become increasingly clear that the current geopolitical landscape is being carved and etched by a declining empire—the United States—alongside its English-speaking allies and many European Union nations. Observing these dynamics, one might argue that the global elite, particularly the upper echelons of society, are engaged in a high-stakes game that influences every corner of the world.
The surprising ease with which Donald Trump secured the presidency, coupled with the conspicuous absence of meaningful discourse in mainstream media casting any doubt about his victory, suggests a possible consensus among some of the highest elites. This unity appears aimed at undermining and subjugating major rising global powers like Russia and China among others (as the BRICS 2024 summit in Kazan would remark). Additionally, the United States continues to cast a wary eye on Latin America, where the specter of invasions and coups loom, often masked under the guise of combating narcoterrorism. We just need to take a glimpse at the current Mexican media narrative around whether cartels should be classified as terrorists.
Reflecting on historical precedents, particularly the aftermath of World War II, we learn that capitalist—and, by extension, imperialist—elites have a tendency to favor fascist or ultra-right-wing leaders over class-based alternatives when their economic systems are threatened. This preference emerges from an inherent drive to preserve the capitalist economic system, even as it perpetually seeks to dismantle and dominate those who challenge it on the global stage, such as China and Russia, just by their very economic success. While the world has undoubtedly evolved, the fundamental patterns remain: empires falter when they overextend militarily and economically in desperate attempts to maintain global hegemony, ultimately devolving into oppressive tyrannies that opt to use force rather than diplomacy.
The situation in the United States mirrors disquieting developments observed in Germany, where similar patterns are unfolding. Under ostensibly "left-wing" governments, the populace is being economically strained, hope is systematically eroded, and societal divisions are deepened through the vilification of immigrants as synchronically more conservative and, indeed, right-wing politics are becoming more popular. This environment sets the stage for the rise of ultra-right factions, whose agendas often involve further impoverishing the working class and expelling immigrants. The ultimate objective? To breed desperation and cultivate a populace willing to engage in and sacrifice themselves for real wars—potentially igniting the flames of World War III. However, this objective might not be linked to merely political parties but, again, to a global and historical context of a crumbling global empire and its accompanying economic and political system.
We should bear in mind, however, that these developments are not the result of a grand, orchestrated "plan." They are also driven by deeply ingrained ideological beliefs underpinning political strategies: entrenched classism, imperialism, and racism. Take, for instance, the mindset of wealthy neoliberal elites. They often scapegoat the poor for economic downturns, insisting that failures are due to the incompetence and lethargy of the working class or, likewise, those having come from other places rather than acknowledging their own roles in creating and perpetuating poverty through misguided policies and corporate malfeasance.
These beliefs are pervasive among the elite circles that govern politics and industry. By attributing economic hardships to the supposed failings of the common people, they deflect responsibility and maintain their grip on power. This narrative not only justifies existing inequalities but also hinders any substantial movement towards a more equitable society.
Another critical point to remember is the influence of different geographical levels on political strategies. These strategies act and interact on the local, regional, national, and global levels. One discourse that pushes neoliberal and imperialist parties to the forefront on the local level, such as anti-immigrant sentiment, might, at the same time, therefore, serve an agenda of militarization that serves global interests.
As we navigate these turbulent times, we need to maintain a critical cartography of the forces shaping our world, vigilantly mapping the geopolitical, environmental, and socio-economic currents that influence our collective terrain. Understanding the interplay between elite agendas, geopolitical maneuvers, and societal shifts can empower us to advocate for meaningful change and resist the corrosive influences of imperialism and systemic injustice.
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