One of the sad factors underlying citizens ever-worsening conditions is the conviction that our democracy (republic) as a form of government is synonymous with capitalism, a form of economy.

Capitalism might have had its inevitability written into the Constitution, but the good ol' founding fathers would freak out if they saw this speculative form into which it has evolved. It's time for some tuning up so that people don't starve due to speculation's profits.

When I see the number of comments blaming consumers for these world conditions, I see the incredible extent of our brain-washing. True, Americans consume far too much of world resources and prices getting higher will force more thoughtful consumption and perhaps, better diets.

BUT, the economy has left citizens behind; this is one example of the attacks of the insiders on the middle class, which, if I read correctly, rolls over with guilt rather than recognize the enormity of the problem, get "outside the box" of their rights rather than confront the enemies.

Top 2% control 50% of nations wealth? That ain't right.