The Acquisitive Society

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R. H. Tawney critiques the selfish individualism inherent in modern industrial societies, arguing that capitalism fosters economic self-interest which results in aimless production driven by greed. He contends that this acquisitiveness distorts industrialism and, by extension, nationalism leads to imperialism and a flawed balance of power strategy, culminating in unnecessary conflicts. Tawney's analysis highlights the moral and social implications of economic systems, urging a reevaluation of societal values in the face of rampant materialism.