" Western capitalism is a looting mechanism. It loots labor. It loots the environment, and with the transpacific and transatlantic ‘partnerships,’ it will loot the sovereign law of countries. "
- Paul Craig Roberts

The statement criticizes Western capitalism as a system that exploits various resources without concern for sustainability or ethical consequences. It suggests that this economic model devalues labor by underpaying workers and disregards environmental protection, leading to long-term ecological damage. Additionally, it claims that through international partnerships across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, Western capitalist entities undermine the legal sovereignty of other nations.

This critique goes beyond surface-level observations about capitalism's negative impacts. It argues that the system is inherently predatory, aiming to maximize profit regardless of the human or environmental cost. By viewing labor as a disposable resource and the environment as an inexhaustible source of raw materials, Western capitalism perpetuates inequality and environmental degradation on a global scale. Furthermore, it highlights how powerful economic entities can exert undue influence over smaller nations' legal systems, leading to unfair trade practices that benefit multinational corporations at the expense of local communities and national laws.

Paul Craig Roberts is an American economist and political scientist known for his critiques of capitalism and globalization. He has held various academic positions and has been involved in government work, including serving as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Economic Policy during the Reagan administration. His writings often challenge conventional economic wisdom and advocate for a more equitable global economic system.