[vintermann]

They had options in the East Bloc countries too, it was just that they were limited by who you knew rather than how rich you were.

And I totally agree that being at the mercy of someone you have to ask permission, can be every inch as dispiriting being at the mercy of a person who can set a price.

[nickpp]

Oh no. It doesn't even compare. The current "price" is set by the free market and it can be met, negotiated or worked for. It's clear and it's fair even if sometimes steep.

But asking for permission was dehumanizing. You ass belonged to them afterwards. Like asking for a favor from the mob. You were a slave. They were the aristocracy and you were less than dirt.