THE MARKET
Whenever one discusses the economy, one's job, what one buys, one's well being, more often than not the term "The Market" is inserted somewhere in the conversation. "The Market" is apparently in control of just about everything worth anything and it is godlike. It is godlike for the fact that one can not define "The Market" any more than one can define "God" as the term is used by almost everyone in any context whatsoever; but it is everywhere.
It would appear to me that the two terms "The Market" and "God" are so similar in their use, that they could very well be synonymous. One simply can't avoid the inherent mystery of "The Market" as it is currently used. It apparently controls everything "God" doesn't. I think this a fair assumption to make. Accordingly, I believe, one ought, in showing the proper respect due to it, always capitalize it as we do when referring to "God". It is "The Market", not the market.
"The Market" has mystery, it has omnipotence; it has absolute authority over every aspect of our lives. Some might say that it has actually replaced God; some might say they are competitors rather - - who do you serve, God or "The Market"? Can you serve both? Of course, the answer to this is quite simple: to most serving either has one and the same positive result: if you endorse the market, wealth will follow; if you endorse God, eternal life will follow. It appears to be a win-win situation all around.
And all you have to do is believe - - so simple really. It is amazing how "belief" insures your current and lasting relationship with the universe. Consequently, it is not only normal, but universally encouraged - - belief that is. If you believe, you will be saved. How many times have you heard this? Probably from birth to demise; your acquaintances, your friends, your employees, your bosses, your everybody will tell you to believe and all will be well. And so you do. It applies to "The Market" as well as God.
It is difficult, but one should, if not totally unaware, actually give all this some thought. Unfortunately, thought is not what is rewarded - - neither "The Market" nor God rewards thought. Thought leads to unbelief and hence not acceptable. But I suggest that one give it a try; you can always return to belief at any time your thinking scares you a little. Belief is your safe haven, your reward for compliance, your feel-good state of being. It is a state of non-thought which is the most comfortable state to be in.
Richard E H Phelps II
Mingo
