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This session examines the enduring relationship between capitalism and the military-industrial complex. John Maynard Keynes and Thorstein Veblen recognised that modern capitalism is built on chronic overcapacity — a system that requires continual outlets for surplus production and investment. When consumer demand or peaceful markets fail to absorb that excess, war and militarisation often step in to sustain profits and stabilise power. As is clearly happening now across the Global North.
Drawing connections from the post-Depression arms expansions to today’s devastation in Gaza, the discussion will explore how military conflict continues to serve as a release valve for economic pressure, political control, and corporate gain.
It will ask whether capitalism’s dependence on destruction is an unavoidable feature — or a deliberate choice maintained by those who benefit most. Ben Wray, Journalist and Researcher, co-author of 'Scotland After Britain'
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 44 Buchanan Street, Edinburgh, EH6 8, United Kingdom
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