Voluntary unionism

Press, 24 January 1984, Page 16

Voluntary unionism

Sir, — A. J. Roberts and V. H, Anderson’s unsubstantiated claims are inadequate response to my carefully researched letters. People, including capitalists, work best in a sociable, self-directed context. True socialism in different forms exists in more than 20 countries embracing over 40 per cent of humanity. Exploitation flourishes under capitalism. I wish Keith Wignail would value people above profits. While menial work is necessary, it is as valuable as professional work. America is magnificently funded by her oppressive exploitation of Third World nations whose repressive regimes she maintains in power. I referred (January 5) to the phenomenal waste and extravagance in American research, production and marketing, not the American life-style Capitalism causes poverty in other countries, does not eliminate it at home and has had major depressions roughly every 50 years for the last 200 years. Trade unions are necessary as long as exploitation and capitalism survive; then they change their function. — Yours, etc., SUSAN TAYLOR. January 1984. J’ [This correspondence is now closed. — Editor.]