The Socialist Program with Brian Becker Why the U.S. Economy Is Spiraling AGAIN w/ Prof. Wolff
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Sep 17, 2025 
Professor Richard Wolff, author and co-founder of Democracy at Work, dives into the dire state of the U.S. economy, revealing how systemic issues inherently lead to cycles of crisis. He highlights the paradox of a booming stock market alongside rising unemployment and calls for a shift away from capitalism. Wolff discusses the alarming concentration of wealth among the top earners and connects economic disparities to societal instability. He also touches on global politics' role in economic crises, emphasizing the need for transformative solutions.
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Next Downturn Is Likely Imminent
- Richard Wolff argues the U.S. is on the edge of the next economic downturn driven by recurring boom-bust cycles.
- He notes downturns recur every 4–7 years and 2025 falls within that expected window.
Stagflation Signals Rising Economic Stress
- Wolff highlights stagflation: rising inflation paired with stagnant or falling employment and growth.
- He links current indicators to this stagflationary pattern and broader capitalist instability.
Idle Resources Amid Unemployment
- Wolff contrasts official unemployment with unused productive capacity, noting millions want work while factories sit underused.
- He calls this a
