moral virtues

I agree with Philip Booth that capitalism does reward moral virtues and punishes the lack of it. You can see that reflected in the brand values, or assets listed in the balance sheet as goodwill. Lack of it destroys capital as demonstrated by the likes of Bernie Ebbers, and lately the Murdochs & quite a few others in the recent limelight.. Hard work in itself will not always be rewarded, unless it is channelled in the right direction... As far as poverty is concerned, I am not sure that we can completely eradicate it. But personally, I think what we really need is a fair, equitable & just society across continents, rather than a rich society locally where everyone is rich! I don't think we really understand poverty, living in a country where there isn't anyone dying from famine or hunger or thirst. NHS seems to be more worried about people eating too much.