The terms “labour pagano” and “finance pagano,” derived from the Italian word “pagano” (meaning pagan or non-Christian), refer to concepts that emerged primarily within certain leftist political and economic discourses, especially in Italy during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. They describe perceived negative aspects of capitalism, specifically related to how labor and finance operate. It’s important to note that these terms are often used critically and sometimes pejoratively, embodying specific ideological perspectives rather than being universally accepted economic categories.
Labour Pagano: This concept critiques the exploitation and alienation of labor within capitalist systems. It argues that workers are increasingly treated as mere commodities, stripped of their dignity and subjected to precarious working conditions. The “pagano” label implies a dehumanization reminiscent of pre-Christian, supposedly less enlightened, societal practices. Key aspects include:
- Precarious Work: A focus on the growth of temporary contracts, part-time jobs, and the gig economy, where workers lack job security, benefits, and collective bargaining power.
- De-skilling: The argument that automation and standardized processes lead to a degradation of skills, making workers more easily replaceable and lowering their value in the labor market.
- Alienation: The idea that workers are separated from the products of their labor and the decision-making processes, leading to a sense of powerlessness and dissatisfaction.
- Exploitation: The traditional Marxist critique that capitalists extract surplus value from workers’ labor, paying them less than the value they create.
The term is often used in conjunction with discussions of the erosion of traditional labor protections and the rise of neoliberal economic policies that prioritize profit maximization over worker well-being. It’s a call for greater regulation, stronger unions, and alternative economic models that prioritize social justice and worker empowerment.
Finance Pagano: This concept focuses on the perceived immoral and destructive nature of speculative finance capital. It criticizes the detachment of finance from the real economy, arguing that it prioritizes short-term profits over long-term investment and social benefit. The “pagano” element highlights the perceived worship of wealth and the disregard for ethical considerations. Key criticisms include:
- Speculation: The argument that financial markets are driven by irrational exuberance and speculative bubbles, rather than by sound economic fundamentals.
- Financialization: The increasing dominance of financial institutions and financial logic in the economy, leading to a neglect of productive industries and essential services.
- Inequality: The claim that financial activities exacerbate income inequality, as the benefits of financial growth accrue disproportionately to the wealthy.
- Moral Hazard: The idea that government bailouts of financial institutions encourage reckless behavior and undermine accountability.
The concept of “finance pagano” aligns with critiques of deregulation, excessive risk-taking, and the power of large financial institutions. It’s often linked to calls for greater financial regulation, taxation of financial transactions, and alternative forms of finance that prioritize social and environmental goals.
In summary, “labour pagano” and “finance pagano” are critical concepts used to highlight the perceived negative consequences of contemporary capitalism, particularly the exploitation of labor and the dominance of speculative finance. They represent a specific ideological viewpoint calling for systemic change and a more just and equitable economic order.