The article is tragic because the protesters want basic human rights and we're living in a time of expanding rights and opportunity, but they appear to be on a path that doesn't lead there. A list of the protester's goals from the articles and signs:
- End privileges for politically-connected groups
- Stop police human rights abuses, including rape and murder
- End gov't privileges for people with "an important last name".
- Life with dignity
- Respect rights of transgendered people
- Respect rights of indigenous people

I hope they achieve their goals.

Do they want another Allende nationalizing of private property?

People of Chile did not live better under his rule.

In my previous business (fuel catalysts) one of my associates set up an extensive trial at the largest mine in Chile. He made many trips there to assure the test was done fairly. The outcome of the 6 month test was the mine was saving about 15% of their fuel by using the catalyst. The maintenance costs were also much lower because the catalyst also protected the engine parts. He had a great win in a difficult business. Instead of making the obvious rational decision to save 15% of their fuel bill forever (and the incidental lower maintenance), the decision maker decided to accept a temporary 15% discount on fuel price from the fuel supplier, and free use of a yacht and an executive cabin as long as he remained loyal to the fuel supplier. That's how business is done in all locations south of the Rio Grande. AS non-fiction. One of my friends (in the same business with a great product) has experienced the same issues in India, Mexico, CentralAm and SouthAm.

Yeah...that's about right. I like the 40+ year old guy holding a skateboard. Oh and the really confused person...if you know what I mean. Too bad. I've always wanted to see Chile. Looks like I'll have to go incognito if I make it down...

Perhaps I am oversimplifying but it appears that everyone interviewed in the article produces little or nothing, and they believe they should be given what real producers have earned.