Envisioning Economic Collapse - Guns and Gold

America is at a precarious point in its history. That is not written to be inflammatory or as preface to some conspiratorial oratory. It is an opinion based on the diversity of media available to the average citizen and a cursory analysis of what would happen should the fabric (media, financial system) that binds modern day America tear.

Since the 2008 financial crisis the demand for gold, guns and silver has skyrocketed. Doomsday preppers as they are called are now mainstream. With a presidential candidate openly questioning whether he would accept the results of the election it would seem that a fundamental conceit of American democracy has been taken for granted.

So, its not too hard to see why one's mind may drift and envision what would be right of boom.

In the event of a nuclear attack by China, Russia or (heaven forbid) the EU on America the answer is short and simple. Nothing would be left to see. The East and West Coasts would be vaporized and flyover country would be haphazard and treacherous.

A more limited exchange or localized pandemic or supply chain disruption (oil maybe) would leave large swaths of the country physically unharmed but unable to operate business as usual. With that as a scenario lets take a look at:

Guns - There may be some benefit but more benefit will be had in large numbers and organization. Guns cannot be eaten. They are good somewhat for protection but against large crowds a handgun is unlikely to make much difference.

Gold and Silver - Silver is the original money and gold retains value but its marginal value is low when necessities are considered. That said, were the credit system to freeze up yet production capacity remain online gold and silver would be the place to be.

(Black) Power Man

The Marvel / Netflix television series Luke Cage is a really good superhero television show. With a nearly all black cast and crew (along with the main character) it is also history making. There have been other productions, most notably M.A.N.T.I.S but what sets Luke Cage apart is the emphasis on embracing the American culture that would produce such a hero.

From shootouts in the barbershop to wrongdoing at a community center Luke Cage does not take place in a remote "fortress of solitude" but in the 'hood. His adventures take him to prison, nightclubs and to church. The drama is infused with and comfortable with blackness. American blackness.

That his costume is essentially a bullet riddled hoodie sweatshirt serves as a constant reminder of the danger confronting black men in modern society. Though peaceful he finds himself shot at constantly by everybody. He has served prison time, has a police record and lives under an assumed name. he is an outcast, an outlaw. He has been without ever committing a crime, criminalized. This he shares with every black man in America.

So his power is to be bulletproof. Thick - skinned.And very strong.

On a more critical note however there are many problems with Power Man from a black nationalist point of view. His values are skewed. For example, despite his tremendous ...well power he has to be convinced to contribute something to the uplift of those around him. He has no innate need or desire to see those around him succeed. It is only when he can no longer run from his blackness that he accepts it. This all the while looking to it to provide for him (companionship, entertainment, brotherhood and employment).

Overall Luke Cage moves the needle forward.