In Robert Reich’s controversial documentary, “Inequality for All”, issues around the widening inequality gap are addressed in regards to economic policy, status, class, privilege, and power. Reich, who formerly held the position as Clinton’s cabinet member, presents a convincing argument as to why inequality is rising and the factors which are contributing.
According to Reich, as the economy and productivity continues to grow, wages have flattened; in turn hurting the middle class. While critics of Reich’s policies claim that the rich are “job creators” that are the center of the economic universe, Reich argues that the middle class is actually the driving force of economic success. The real picture that Reich creates is, in my opinion, an accurate one. The winners in what Reich terms “The Vicious Cycle” of United States economy are the wealthy consumers, investors on Wall Street, CEO’s and executives, and their increasing pay checks. In reality tax revenue is decreasing, government cuts that hurt lower classes are increasing, investments in education are decreasing and unemployment is increasing. According to Reich’s statistical evidence, while inequality in our nation is the highest, tax rates on the wealthy are the lowest (6% tax rate for rich, 18% for middle class). Tax breaks in the name of “job creation” really mean that “the fat cats get bigger”. We must develop policy that puts the people first, and tax responsibilities should be shared in a way that benefits all parties involved.
Who is really taking care of the American worker? The last words Reich leaves us with in regards to this question is to “mobilize, organize and energize”, providing students like us with the drive and determination to impact our policies and programs for the better. Policy starts here with us.
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