This chapter discusses the urgent need for increased participation of African Americans and women in the innovation economy, focusing on disparities in STEM fields. It highlights the barriers in education and technology access that hinder inclusiveness and presents educational experiments aimed at improving outcomes for minority and low-income students.
How much has racism held back the U.S. economy? What would the country look like today if Black entrepreneurs and inventors had been welcomed and encouraged over the past century and a half? Economist Lisa Cook of Michigan State University talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about her research into the impact of racism, lynching, and segregation on Black inventors and entrepreneurs.