Unthinking Majority wrote:If "there's no hierarchy", including economic hierarchy, a smart person with a great business idea isn't going to be able to make as much money compared to in a hierarchical capitalist society.
I don't think you know what hierarchy is.
Hierarchy primarily refers to relationships of command and subordination. It's origins seem to be in descriptions of the mechanics of divine command in the world: ranks of angels, ranks of religious officials, etc., with all ultimately subordinated to a god. We also use the term to describe systemic advantages and privileges granted to individuals on the basis of particular social or economic roles.
Mere individual differences (in capacity, experience, performance, influence,etc.) are not enough to establish hierarchy. Hierarchies involve roles and persist, often whether or not the individual is actually capable of fulfilling the role. (Bad managers still command exceptional employees. Weak or inept rulers may be deposed, losing the role, but it is still always the ruler who rules. Etc.)
Where does the funding come from with no capital markets?
I use "funding" in quotations because, while an anarchist society will have something similar in it's effects, it operates completely differently.
In an anarchist society, projects gain traction based on how many people want or are willing to give resources or put in effort to complete them. If your idea is attractive and you have a good plan, people will associate with you and work to execute said idea.
The USA doesn't get a lot of brain drain and it's arguably the most hierarchical wealthy western country.
Not really. Compared to Syria where most of the property is held in the hands of Assad's clan, I think even the US is an upgrade.