Whole Foods CEO Defends Capitalism

The libertarian CEO of Whole Foods, John Mackey, called out Bill Gates in a speech on the virtues of capitalism. Gates’ view is that rich businessmen should focus on donating their money to help the world. Mackey pointed out that successful business ventures have helped the world, often much more than philanthropy. Gates seems to underestimate the massive value his company has generated for the world.

Mackey makes an excellent point. We shouldn’t say “on the one hand, he’s a philanthropist and on the other hand, he’s a dirty capitalist.” Rather, we should recognize the value in both pursuits. Perhaps Mackey is looking to be cast as John Galt in the upcoming Atlas Shrugged movie.