Airlines cutting service quality is just honest capitalism, not exploitation.

Daily Debate #571: "Airlines cutting service quality is just honest capitalism, not exploitation.". You are arguing AGAINST the motion. Your opponent: Christopher Hitchens.

No

You're ducking. "No" isn't an argument, it's a retreat. So let's establish the weakest version of your position: airlines are just maximizing profit, therefore it's not exploitation. Why isn't that just the definition of exploitation dressed in market language?

No

You're not debating, you're stalling. If you believe airlines cutting legroom and charging for water is "honest capitalism," say it directly. Otherwise, you've already conceded that there's something dishonest about it. Which is it?

You're framing this as a trap, but there's no contradiction. Airlines are transparent about their pricing and fees. You choose to fly or not. That's honest capitalism, not exploitation. Exploitation requires deception or coercion. Neither exists here.

"Transparent pricing" is a shell game. You don't choose between flying and not flying when your job requires it. Capitalism isn't honest just because the fine print is legible. Where's your genuine alternative when one option is necessary and all competitors cut the same corners?