The rise in populism following financial crises, such as the 2008 financial crisis, is characterized by a turn inward, suspicion of foreigners, and the embrace of protectionism and restrictions on immigration. This surge in populism is linked to the impact of financial crises on the balance sheets of millions of households, in contrast to typical recessions caused by the central bank. The retreat from American leadership abroad, globalization, and international trade by both political parties is suggested to be more influenced by the response of the American people to the financial crisis than by an accurate assessment of whether those policies actually benefited Americans overall.
The American Dream – the idea that anyone can achieve success in the U.S. through hard work and determination – is under scrutiny, and some worry it’s no longer achievable for the broader population. Those who agree say increasing healthcare, education, and housing costs create difficulty in having financial stability. Those who disagree argue that the U.S. still offers more opportunities for personal and financial growth than elsewhere. Now we debate: Is the American Dream in Decline?
Arguing Yes: David Leonhardt, Pulitzer Prize-winning Senior Writer for The New York Times and The Morning; Author of “Ours Was the Shining Future: The Story of the American Dream”
Arguing No: Michael Strain, Political Economy Scholar and Director of Economic Policy Studies at American Enterprise Institute; Author of “The American Dream Is Not Dead: (But Populism Could Kill It)”
Nayeema Raza, Journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, is the guest moderator.
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