David, the fact that the piece is written in an academic style does not detract from the central message that it suits certain sectors to recast society and, in so doing, divert attention from other activities. That we are even having such a discussion intrigues me. We have just experienced the world's worst financial crisis (caused by the deregulated financial sector) and we are not discussing how to regulate their activities but how to claw back money from the more vulnerable sectors of society whether that be in a reduction of aid to poorer nations or cutting of benefits. In fact the financial sector, having been bailed out by many who are despised because they work in the public sector, is happily getting on doing pretty much what it did before the crash and probably planting seeds for the next one.
I have watched the increase in negative rhetoric over the past few years laying blame at the door of the 'ordinary' citizen or in fact anyone other than the actual perpetrators and it concerns me. I also know that some see unemployment as a "price worth paying" and capitalise on this - the widespread use (misuse) of zero hour contracts being one example.
I am aware that some people play the system for their personal benefit (tax avoiders, tax evaders, bonus seekers and fraudulent benefit claimants) but I don't subscribe to the wholesale demonisation of the weak and the poor and believe we need to choose our language carefully.
Howard, once the backdoor privatisation of the public services is complete there will be enough doctors, nurses and teachers....you'll just have to be able to afford them!
