RIP Gene Wilder: 5 Lessons About Capitalism Willy Wonka Taught Us

3.) Greed Isn’t All That Drives Capitalism

When Veruca Salt doesn’t get her way in the movie, she throws a fit and starts attacking the innocent, hardworking Oompa Loompas and their projects. She kicks down their boxes, yells in their faces and runs all over their equipment. Her father, a wealthy special interest, tries to bribe Wonka to get her way but Wonka values his commitment to his customers more than money, as do many business owners. Thankfully, Salt’s destructive tantrum is cut short when she pouts all the way to the garbage chute with her greedy father fast behind.