There is a growing consensus that the West is losing its grip on global power and influence, prompting many to seek explanations for this trend. But one particular theory has been gaining traction online for its potential to provide insights into this decline.
Western institutions falling apart
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The idea put forth by TikTok user @cntrtnr has gained attention for its interesting take on why Western institutions like democracy and public health seem to be falling apart at a faster pace than before.
Not global warming or rising inequality
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While many attribute the crumbling of western institutions to global warming or rising inequality, the OP offers a thought-provoking theory that is often overlooked.
He argues that there is another underlying factor that deserves more attention, which is the fundamental shift in how rich people are educated and raised in the West, specifically in Britain, Canada, and mostly the US
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The creator points out that if we look back 50, 60, or 70 years ago, maybe in the mid-20th century, most rich families attended mainline denominational Christian churches (even if they didn't believe in it) simply because it was the norm.
Same institutional myths
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They sent their children to private schools run by mainline denominational faiths, where all of these faiths espoused the same institutional myths about the ancient importance of institutions.
"Noblesse oblige"
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These myths included the belief that wealthy people had the inherent right to run the show, but that in exchange for this right, they were obligated to provide for the poor to some extent, which is known as the concept of “noblesse oblige.”
Why the ruling class needs to stick to the principle
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There was an understanding that if the ruling class didn't adhere to the principle of noblesse oblige, the poor would no longer accept their authority, possibly leading to a revolt. He adds this has already occurred multiple times in history.
Difference between then and now
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Based on this argument, the main difference between then and now is that wealthy individuals are no longer raised with these principles; their parents are no longer involved in mainline denominational Christian churches, and they themselves are either atheists or uncertain about their beliefs.
Consequently, the notions of institutional importance and the obligation to care for those less fortunate have disappeared
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“Now what we get is rich people with completely naked self-interest who are running our institution,” he explains.
Cruel twist of fate
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The rich are no longer held to the same standard of noblesse oblige, and in a cruel twist of fate, the politicians who are now dismantling key institutions are being elected by the very people who will be most affected by their policies.
He stated that the rich don't care anymore
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Take, for instance, Canada, where Doug Ford is on the brink of announcing plans to privatize public healthcare, something that was long considered a “huge no-no” in Canadian politics. “But now he doesn’t care,” he adds.
Wealthy people no longer follow the principle
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As he concludes his theory, he asserts that institutions of modern society are under assault because the wealthy no longer place the same level of importance on them as they once did.
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Source: TikTok
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