This chapter discusses the Harlem Children's Zone, a nonprofit organization in central Harlem that aims to help every child in the neighborhood succeed. The speakers also explore the concept of promised neighborhoods, public-private partnerships implemented in cities across the country. They reflect on the positive impact of the Harlem Children's Zone and debate the effectiveness of government spending on anti-poverty and education programs.
Paul Tough, author of How Children Succeed, talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about why children succeed and fail in school and beyond school. He argues that conscientiousness--a mixture of self-control and determination--can be a more important measure of academic and professional success than cognitive ability. He also discusses innovative techniques that schools, individuals, and non-profits are using to inspire young people in distressed neighborhoods. The conversation closes with the implications for public policy in fighting poverty.