Watch TEDTalks: The Capitalism Paradox

TEDTalks is a series of TED talks that brings together some of the world's smartest and most insightful people to discuss a variety of important topics. One episode within this series is called "The Capitalism Paradox," which is focused on exploring the contradictions and complexities inherent in modern capitalism.

The host and first speaker in this episode is Niall Ferguson, a historian and commentator on economics and politics. He introduces the theme of the episode by discussing the way in which capitalism has become a dominant force in the global economy, and notes that it has brought about both tremendous wealth and significant inequality. He argues that the paradox of capitalism is that it is simultaneously the source of great prosperity and the cause of significant social problems.

The next speaker is Shashi Tharoor, a writer, politician, and diplomat from India who focuses on the role of colonialism in the development of modern capitalism. He argues that the legacy of colonialism is one of the key factors contributing to the global economic disparities we see today. He also reflects on the changing power balance within the world economy, and how the rise of China, India, and other emerging economies is challenging the traditional dominance of Western capitalism.

Jacqueline Novogratz, the founder of Acumen, a non-profit focused on impact investing, discusses the need for socially responsible capitalism. She argues that capitalism can and should be used as a force for good, and that businesses can and should prioritize social and environmental impact alongside profit. She shares examples of companies that are successfully integrating social impact into their business models.

Stefan Sagmeister, a graphic designer and artist, uses his talk to reflect on the relationship between capitalism and creativity. He discusses how the quest for profit can sometimes stifle innovation and creativity, and challenges the audience to think about how they can create work that is both commercially viable and artistically valuable.

Barry Schwartz, a psychologist and author, discusses the negative impact of excessive consumerism on individuals and society as a whole. He argues that the constant pursuit of more stuff and more wealth can lead to a host of negative consequences, including anxiety, depression, and damage to the natural environment. He suggests that we need to reimagine our relationship with material possessions in order to build a more sustainable and fulfilling society.

Nic Marks, a statistician and researcher, presents on the role of happiness and well-being in the economy. He argues that our current economic systems are not effectively measuring the things that truly matter, such as human well-being, social connections, and meaning. He calls for a new approach to economics that prioritizes these factors, rather than focusing solely on GDP and other traditional measures of economic success.

Alain de Botton, a philosopher and writer, explores the ways in which capitalism can be harnessed to create a more meaningful and fulfilling life. He argues that the quest for material wealth can sometimes distract us from the things in life that truly matter, such as relationships, creativity, and personal growth. He encourages the audience to reimagine their goals and aspirations in light of these values.

Halla Tomasdottir, a businesswoman and entrepreneur, shares her experience of building a successful investment firm that focuses on supporting women-owned businesses in Iceland. She talks about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the world of business, and how supporting underrepresented groups can lead to stronger and more sustainable economies.

Naomi Klein, an author and activist, discusses the ways in which capitalism and climate change are intertwined. She argues that the pursuit of profit has led us down a dangerous path, one in which the natural world is being destroyed at an alarming rate. She calls for a radical reimagining of our economic systems in order to build a sustainable future for all.

Matt Ridley, a writer and journalist, presents a contrarian view of capitalism, arguing that it is the most effective system yet devised for creating prosperity and progress. He notes that while capitalism may not be perfect, it has lifted billions out of poverty and propelled us into an age of unprecedented innovation and discovery.

Paul Collier, an economist and author, explores the relationship between capitalism and morality. He argues that while capitalism can lead to great prosperity, it can also be a source of moral decay if left unchecked. He calls for a renewed focus on values such as trust, honesty, and accountability in the world of business.

Benjamin Wallace-Wells, a journalist, discusses the ways in which economic inequality is shaping politics and society in the United States. He notes that the current system is leaving millions behind, and that a more equal distribution of wealth and opportunity is needed in order to build a stronger and more just society.

Rachel Botsman, a writer and researcher, discusses the rise of the sharing economy and the potential it has to reshape capitalism. She argues that the sharing economy is built on a new set of values, ones that prioritize access over ownership, community over individualism, and sustainability over consumerism.

Chip Conley, a business executive and author, reflects on his experience of starting a hotel chain for the aging population. He argues that there is significant untapped potential in the senior market, and notes that building businesses that cater to this demographic can be both profitable and socially impactful.

Martin Jacques, a journalist and academic, explores the impact of China's rise on the global economy. He argues that China's model of state-sponsored capitalism is challenging the dominance of Western-style capitalism, and that we are entering a new era of economic and geopolitical competition.

John Gerzema, a marketer and author, presents on the role of morality in business. He argues that consumers are increasingly looking for values-driven companies that prioritize social impact alongside profit. He shares examples of companies that are successfully integrating social impact into their brand identities.

Finally, Auret van Heerden, a human rights expert, discusses the role of corporate responsibility in the global economy. He argues that companies have a responsibility to protect human rights around the world, and that investors and consumers have a role to play in holding them accountable.

Overall, "The Capitalism Paradox" episode of TEDTalks offers a rich and diverse range of perspectives on one of the most pressing issues of our time. From the legacy of colonialism to the challenge of climate change, from the need for socially responsible capitalism to the role of creativity and well-being, this episode offers a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities and contradictions of modern capitalism.