Anyone catch The Sopranos last night? I'm not big on discussing TV shows, but last night's episode was interesting in that it showed the hold that big corporations have over America in a different light.
The episode started with one of Tony's capos collecting "protection" fees from local businesses. For those of you who don't know, "protection" fees are money you give to those who would otherwise kick your ass. Basically, it's the adult version of a bully stealing your milk money.
Well, the collection of the fees was going well until they stepped in on a newly opened business. The capo and his cohort explained to the manager that he would need to pay them for protection or else. The manager responded by telling them that if he did pay them with corporate money, they would be having the same conversation with his replacement very soon. Tony's men finally gave up and walked out penniless.
At the end of the episode, they were met with the news that one of the business owners that had been paying them had his building sold out from under him (by Tony) to a corporation. The capo was left wondering (and I paraphrase), "What's happening to this neighborhood?" At this rate, he would have to take over a new neighborhood in order to maintain his lifestyle.
The effect big corporations have on small business is an everyday sight. The Sopranos made the topic fresh and interesting by showing corporate effect on Tony's criminal enterprise. Who knew that a TV show could be both interesting and economically aware?
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