Accumulation of Wealth

I have already discussed some of the inherent contradictions of the capitalist system, but I think it is important to identify some more general characteristics of the accumulation of wealth, based on historical patterns, that may shed some light on those that pertain specifically to capitalism (the items in my list below link to previous posts so that a comparison may be made).

**By accumulation of wealth, I mean accumulation far beyond what one can produce by oneself or among a freely associating group of people, given whatever technology is available at the time.

1.  It occurs at the expense of others.
2.  It is generally dependent on some form of state support.
3.  It is dependent on limitations to competition.
4.  It is always unsustainable in the long run.
     -The greater the economic expansion, the more strain is put on the system, and thus the bigger and faster the subsequent collapse
5.  Continuing to invest in a profitable enterprise ultimately reduces its profitability.
6.  Expansion occurs primarily via:
     -Strategic monopolies
     -The debt of other people
7.  Contrary to neoliberal ideology:
     -Success derives from a mixture of relative initial weakness and historical accident
     -The most successful enterprises lose their adaptability in the process of attaining their success and ultimately fail
     -Unfettered competition generally leads to decreased profitability for everyone