I don’t agree with all the premises in this piece. I am not sure that the capitalist dream with its mantra of growth, cheap labour and environmental destruction is a good model. Neither do I think it provides a good living for many people. The working classes used to be admired. They worked hard in dangerous, dirty conditions – mining, steel, ship-building, car production etc – but were well rewarded. They are now offered menial tasks, stacking shelves on low pay. They are no longer admired. It is not a great wonder that they don’t want to pick lettuces for peanuts while others take big wages. Inequality creates resentment.
Having said that I think there is a lot to be said for your views on how populists and racists have exploited the discontent. It was thought provoking.