Full episode here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/supply-chains-58821794

Supply chains are undergoing a well-publicized shock right now. But the root of the crisis goes much further than the current pandemic.

The structure and functioning of supply chains was *as a result of* a search for lower costs. This led capitalists to shift much of production to developing countries. The inevitable result is a complex and long supply chain system which is sensitive to sudden shocks. This does not mean, however, that the entire system will be brought down. In fact, even accounting for regular crisis like the current one, the way supply chains are structured have more advantages for capitalism than drawbacks.