- 02 Jun 2016 20:30
#14685435
Actually, there is. Modern capitalism requires at least the appearance of equality in order to function. Feudalism was based upon, and required for its continued existence, a definite and visible social hierarchy, which was reinforced with sumptuary laws - only the aristocracy were allowed to wear silk or taffeta, for example. Capitalism requires the presumption (though not the reality) of equality - the "level playing field" and all that nonsense. The modern business suit was therefore invented as a kind of 'uniform' for the new capitalist class. It is a highly simplified costume and can therefore be purchased relatively cheaply - it has no silks or ruffles, for example. If a suit is expensive, then it's not usually obviously expensive, unlike the clothing of the feudal aristocracy. This visible imposition of (theoretical) equality is, in fact, essential to the capitalist system. It is the ideology of the bourgeoisie made visible.
And if they are, there is no need to enforce equality by use of uniforms.
Actually, there is. Modern capitalism requires at least the appearance of equality in order to function. Feudalism was based upon, and required for its continued existence, a definite and visible social hierarchy, which was reinforced with sumptuary laws - only the aristocracy were allowed to wear silk or taffeta, for example. Capitalism requires the presumption (though not the reality) of equality - the "level playing field" and all that nonsense. The modern business suit was therefore invented as a kind of 'uniform' for the new capitalist class. It is a highly simplified costume and can therefore be purchased relatively cheaply - it has no silks or ruffles, for example. If a suit is expensive, then it's not usually obviously expensive, unlike the clothing of the feudal aristocracy. This visible imposition of (theoretical) equality is, in fact, essential to the capitalist system. It is the ideology of the bourgeoisie made visible.
"Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies." - Marx (Groucho)