Srinagar, Aug. 20 -- The modern world has achieved extraordinary scientific, technological, and economic progress. Yet, despite unprecedented global wealth, poverty and inequality continue to define the lives of billions. Millions of people go to bed hungry every night. Many lack adequate food, clean drinking water, healthcare, education, and secure shelter. At the same time, a relatively small segment of humanity controls an enormous share of the world's wealth. This stark contrast raises a fundamental question: if economic progress is real, why are so many people still deprived of life's most basic necessities?

Capitalism has undoubtedly contributed to innovation, entrepreneurship, industrial growth, and rising living standards for man...