Scene on Radio
S7 E7: Gilded Age 2.0
Jul 31, 2024
Nancy MacLean, a historian focused on democracy and economic inequality, joins Edward Balleisen, an expert in regulation history, economist Brad DeLong, corporate responsibility advocate Marjorie Kelly, and policy analyst Oren Cass. They unravel how neoliberalism has shaped the perception of a rigged economy, dissecting its origins and Reagan's lasting legacy. The discussion explores labor disparities, financialization's role in wealth inequality, and the impact of globalization on American jobs, uncovering the complex threads of economic dissatisfaction in contemporary society.
58:19
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights widespread public sentiment that the economy is perceived as 'rigged' to favor corporations and the wealthy.
- It discusses the historical shift towards neoliberalism that has contributed to significant wealth disparity and job losses in America.
Deep dives
The Limitations of Opinion Polls
Opinion polls often fail to capture the true sentiments of the public regarding the economy. Individuals may answer questions based on personal circumstances rather than economic indicators. For instance, younger respondents might assess economic health based on personal challenges, such as unaffordable rent and job insecurity. This disconnect suggests that many citizens view the economy as 'rigged,' benefiting specific groups like the wealthy and corporations, irrespective of broader economic metrics.
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