Capitalism as A World Economy

Abstract

Harry Magdoff sat down to talk in front of a video camera in April 2003, three weeks before the conference "Imperialism Today" sponsored by Monthly Review in honor of his ninetieth birthday. An edited version of his remarks would be shown on a large screen at the start of the conference. But Harry has much to say that will be left on the cutting room floor, not because it lacks relevance, but because the time for the video is short, and a good portion of it will be devoted to how he became a socialist. Here, then, are Harry's thoughts on capitalism, imperialism, the United States-and Iraq. (Note: the transcript of the interview was edited in July 2003 under Harry's supervision to fill in a number of deteils.) During the interview, Harry completely ignores the camera and videographer. Dressed in a flannel shirt and dark blue sweatpants, he talks easily and fluently, though he has had a sleepless night. Even approaching ninety, his mind is clear, his words crisp, his gaze strong.-H.G.