Costa Rican Capitalism in the 21st Century: Structural Changes and Social Repercussions

Abstract

This article aims to examine the evolution of capitalism in Costa Rica during the 21st century, with an emphasis on the transition from a productive-commercial model to a speculative-financial model. This analysis reveals how a series of events throughout the study period exposed the structural vulnerabilities of the Costa Rican economic system, uncovering its deep weaknesses. Through a detailed approach, it is evident that this transformation not only intensified economic instability but also widened inequalities.

The most significant findings of the study highlight that the shift towards speculative capitalism has exacerbated the contradictions and inequalities inherent in the global economic system. Despite attempts to mitigate these effects through assistance policies and fiscal adjustments, Costa Rica faced a notable economic deterioration, manifested in overall deceleration, increased poverty levels, and a high fiscal deficit. This new economic model, more focused on speculation and financing, has highlighted the unsustainability and contradictions of the system in the long term, emphasizing the urgency of rethinking economic strategies within the Costa Rican context.