This is important. As humans, we like the idea of masterminds and grand schemes. Because it means we can solve societal problems just by defeating the big boss. But in reality, such problems can only be solved by uprooting systems--like financial capitalism--that create bad actors as externalities.
There was no mastermind or grand scheme, but there was a successful effort by wealthy men, including Epstein, to destroy a status quo that they feared was trending towards greater accountability.
I had a moment this morning when I realized that all these evil men would just have been depraved internet trolls if we actually taxed the rich.
Feb 3, 2026 11:14