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Notes -
Capitalism is not the only lens through which to view the world, I feel, even though people nowadays including here like pretending it is! Money is a ridiculously super-strong force that acts both on individuals as well as larger groupings. So yes, capitalist structures matter. But other structures and forces also exist and interact!
In terms of fundamental human needs and motivations, we all know Maslow. That's not the only game in town though. I won't bore you to list them here, though it might be an interesting effortpost to talk about a few less-known ones. Although many fundamental needs interface significantly with money, not all do, and other structures might better meet or fulfill many of them. For example, sense of belonging is an easy one. These can explain seemingly irrational, non-capitalist results even in a heavily capitalist society.
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