James Kwak has an article in The Atlantic today about the ideological motivations of the modern-day Republican party. Specifically, he tries to explain why Republicans — the pre-eminent haters of taxation — often suggest raising taxes on the very poor. Kwak suggests, Republicans are believers in just deserts: The other, even-more-disturbing explanation, is that Republicans… Continue reading Desert theory and taxing the poor
Author: Matt Bruenig
Naysayers are wrong: the labor movement is here to stay
Scott Walker avoided a recall last night in what was in large part a union-driven initiative to remove him from office. Perhaps worrisome, 36% of voters from union households voted for Scott Walker in the recall. The outcome of this election will doubtlessly fuel more discussion about unionization and the future of organized labor, and… Continue reading Naysayers are wrong: the labor movement is here to stay
How effective is student aid?
Our system of college financing is a mess. Within the present system, it is hard to put downward cost pressure on universities, which has resulted in a cost explosion. Acquiring a college degree — although usually a lucrative move — requires some risk, and that risk is not properly spread out. The problems could go… Continue reading How effective is student aid?
Why Not Socialism?
I have decided to begin a book recommendation series. Occasionally, I will pick a book I enjoyed — either recently or in the past — and link to it via the sidebar, as well as write a post about it. The first book is Why Not Socialism? by G.A. Cohen. Cohen begins this very short… Continue reading Why Not Socialism?
Meritocratic delusions and inequality
Noah Smith has a post today arguing that belief in skill is socially beneficial. For any given entrepreneurial venture, its success or failure will be the result of luck, skill, or a combination of the two. Smith argues that individuals who believe in the primacy of skill will be more likely to undertake the kinds… Continue reading Meritocratic delusions and inequality