A World Without Government Money and Corporations: Utopia or Catastrophe?

Within 20 years, we might find ourselves in a world where government money and corporations, which currently control vast resources, cease to exist. This raises fascinating questions: would such a world lead to a utopian society, where everyone thrives and contributes to the collective good, or would it result in self-destruction, driven by the relentless pursuit of individual gain?

Historical Context: Life Without Structured Societal Systems

Imagine a world hundreds, or even thousands, of years ago, where society was structured around individual survival. In this primitive society, everyone was responsible for their own survival. If you wanted a shirt, you would have to kill a deer yourself, skin it, make a knife, tan the hide, and sew the shirt. Every aspect of life demanded endless, backbreaking effort.

This rigorous lifestyle led people to yearn for specialization. Some became skilled hunters, others developed weaving techniques, and still others traded goods. This specialization led to significant advancements, making life more comfortable and efficient. Over time, corporations were formed, providing employment and driving prices down significantly. Today, we no longer need to spend 80 hours of labor to make a shirt; instead, we buy it for just 30 minutes of work using the latest technology.

Implications Without Government and Corporations

If societal structures in the form of government and corporations were to disappear, the trajectory of human society would depend heavily on our starting point. In a world where resources are unlimited, the lack of structured systems would lead to a regression to the lowest common denominator. Individuals and small groups would revert to survival instinct, potentially forming feral human tribes.

Regression and Hoarding: Without centralized systems to manage resources, it is plausible that people would specialize in skills that directly benefit their survival, leading to a regression to more primitive forms of living. Some might hoard resources to the detriment of others, fostering a hostile and insecure environment. This scenario closely resembles ongoing conflicts like the civil war in Sudan, where tribal dominance, hoarding, and weaponized power lead to tragic outcomes.

Utopian Vision vs. Self-Destruction

Utopian Society: On the other hand, a world without government money and corporations could potentially lead to a utopian society if individuals and groups collaborate for the common good. With unlimited resources, everyone could focus on their unique talents and contributions, without the burden of survival. Collective efforts could lead to remarkable advancements and a more equitable distribution of resources.

Self-Destruction: However, the human tendency towards selfishness and the chaotic nature of unregulated systems suggest that self-destruction is a more likely outcome. Without the constraints provided by government and corporations, dominant tribes might form, leading to conflicts over resources and power. This scenario would be an example of an "anything goes" environment that prioritizes individual gain over collective well-being.

Conclusion

The future of a world devoid of government money and corporations is uncertain and depends on our collective actions. Whether we achieve a utopian society or succumb to self-destruction will be determined by our ability to collaborate, manage resources, and avoid the pitfalls of individualism. As we move towards a more decentralized world, it is crucial to reflect on our past to ensure a future that benefits everyone.