Sidney A. Shapiro and Joseph P. Tomain, "How Government Built America" (Cambridge UP, 2024)
Dec 1, 2024
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Sidney A. Shapiro, a law professor specializing in administrative law, and Joseph P. Tomain, Dean Emeritus with a focus on energy and regulatory policy, discuss how government has been key to America's development despite rising anti-government sentiments. They tackle the balance between individualism and communal interests throughout history, examining figures from Lincoln to Trump. The conversation critiqued market myths and emphasized the need for government intervention in economic fairness, while also reflecting on the complexities of globalization and shifting political ideologies.
The podcast emphasizes the crucial partnership between government and markets in developing American infrastructure, showcasing how government support has historically boosted productivity.
It challenges prevalent myths of individualism by advocating for the importance of collective democratic values in shaping America's identity and policies.
The discussion highlights the necessity of regulation as a protective measure against market failures, illustrating government intervention's role in upholding equity and social justice.
Deep dives
The Role of Government in Economic Development
Government plays a crucial role in developing the economy, intertwining with markets to facilitate infrastructure projects that boost productivity. Throughout American history, initiatives like the construction of roads, bridges, and railways have demonstrated how governmental support underpins market activities. For instance, the establishment of land grant universities and support for the expansion of the Midwest significantly advanced agricultural practices and education, reinforcing Lincoln's vision of equality of opportunity. These efforts illustrate that a successful economy is often a product of collaborative efforts between governmental institutions and market forces.
Debunking Myths of Individualism vs. Government
The podcast highlights the enduring myths surrounding American individualism, often symbolized by the Marlboro Man, contrasted with the collective values represented in films like 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.' These narratives emphasize the independent spirit associated with capitalism while downplaying government’s foundational role in societal welfare. Both myths serve to simplify America’s complex identity, which is a blend of market-driven individualism and communal democratic ideals. Consequently, it's critical to recognize how these opposing views interact to shape national policies and public perception about the function of government.
The Overshadowed Importance of Regulation
Regulation is depicted not as a hindrance but as a necessary component for ensuring fair market practices and protecting citizens from exploitation. The historical context shows that without regulatory frameworks, markets often fail to operate equitably, leading to discrimination and other market failures. The podcast points out critical moments when government intervention was essential, such as during the Civil Rights Movement, where the federal government stepped in to enforce equal rights in a way the market had not achieved. By understanding the protective nature of regulation, listeners can appreciate the vital balance that government maintains within the economic landscape.
Contemporary Challenges and Government's Role
Current leaders face challenges that require re-evaluating the relationship between government and markets to address inequality and systemic issues, as noted in discussions about the Biden administration and its efforts. The podcast stresses that Biden made strides in infrastructure and social programs, yet struggled to effectively communicate these accomplishments to the public. The contrast between thoughtful governance and the narrative set by previous administrations demonstrates an ongoing struggle to align public perception with reality. Ultimately, how government manages these issues will significantly influence the nation's economic and social fabric moving forward.
Future Perspectives on Government Efficiency
The impending challenges posed by political leaders advocating for reduced governmental roles raise concerns about effective governance in solving pressing societal issues. The podcast argues that if past behaviors are indicative of the future, there will likely be deterioration in the quality of public service due to the dismantling of essential bureaucratic structures. This is coupled with the fear that important initiatives in areas like climate change and economic inequality may stagnate without capable leadership. The ongoing importance of informed and professional civil services will be essential for navigating these challenges and securing a balanced approach between market opportunities and public welfare.
How Government Built America (Cambridge UP, 2024) challenges growing, anti-government rhetoric by highlighting the role government has played in partnering with markets to build the United States. Sidney A. Shapiro and Joseph P. Tomain explore how markets can harm and fail the country, and how the government has addressed these extremes by restoring essential values to benefit all citizens. Without denying that individualism and small government are part of the national DNA, the authors demonstrate how democracy and a people pursuing communal interests are equally important. In highly engaging prose, the authors describe how the government, despite the complexity of markets, remains engaged in promoting economic prosperity, protecting people, and providing an economic safety net. Each chapter focuses on a historical figure, from Lincoln to FDR to Trump, to illustrate how the government-market mix has evolved over time. By understanding this history, readers can turn the national conversation back to what combination of government and markets will best serve the country.
Sidney A. Shapiro holds the Fletcher Chair in Administrative Law at the Wake Forest University School of Law. He is the author of Administrative Competence: Reimagining Administrative Law (2020) and Achieving Democracy: The Future of Progressive Regulation (2014).
Joseph P. Tomain is Dean Emeritus and the Wilbert and Helen Ziegler Professor of Law at the University of Cincinnati. A highly respected professor and scholar, his teaching and research interests focus in the areas of energy law, land use, regulatory policy, and contracts.
Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube channel. Twitter.
