From Wall Street to Europe and Asia, tens of thousands of people have gathered in financial centres around the world to protest against austerity, and what they call "corporate greed".

Most of the rallies inspired by the 'Occupy' Wall Street movement were peaceful, however in New York police broke up a demonstration in Times Square, arresting about 70 people. 

The situation was much worse in Rome: What started as a peaceful demonstration against the economic crisis soon turned into a violent confrontation with riot police. Elsewhere in Europe protests were as tense, but less violent.

What is the real motivation of the 'Occupy' movement? What are they hoping to achieve? Are the protesters being used? And what is their global impact?

Inside Story, with presenter Mike Hanna, discusses with guests Sam Bowman, the head of research of the Adam Smith Institute; and Charlie Wolf, a conservative political commentator.