People, Power, and Profit: Progressive Capitalism for an Age of Discontent - Stiglitz, Joseph E.
People, Power, and Profit: Progressive Capitalism for an Age of Discontent by Joseph E. Stiglitz
In his latest book, Nobel laureate Joseph E. Stiglitz argues that capitalism is in crisis. The current system is rigged in favor of the wealthy and powerful, and it is failing to deliver for the vast majority of people. Stiglitz offers a progressive alternative to capitalism, one that puts people, power, and profit in the right order.
People First
Stiglitz argues that the economy should be about serving the needs of people, not the other way around. He proposes a number of policies to put people first, including:
- Raising the minimum wage. Stiglitz argues that the minimum wage should be raised to a living wage, so that all workers can afford to support themselves and their families.
- Expanding access to healthcare. Stiglitz believes that everyone should have access to affordable, quality healthcare. He proposes a number of policies to expand access to healthcare, including creating a public option for health insurance.
- Investing in education. Stiglitz argues that education is the key to economic opportunity. He proposes a number of policies to invest in education, including making college more affordable and expanding early childhood education.
Power to the People
Stiglitz argues that the current system is rigged in favor of the wealthy and powerful. He proposes a number of policies to give power back to the people, including:
- Reforming campaign finance. Stiglitz believes that the current campaign finance system gives too much power to wealthy donors. He proposes a number of reforms to campaign finance, including public financing of elections and limits on campaign spending.
- Strengthening labor unions. Stiglitz argues that labor unions are essential for giving workers a voice in the economy. He proposes a number of policies to strengthen labor unions, including making it easier for workers to organize and bargain collectively.
- Promoting competition. Stiglitz believes that competition is essential for a healthy economy. He proposes a number of policies to promote competition, including breaking up monopolies and regulating big banks.
Profit in Its Place
Stiglitz argues that profit is not the only goal of the economy. He believes that businesses should also be responsible for social and environmental concerns. He proposes a number of policies to make businesses more responsible, including:
- Raising corporate taxes. Stiglitz believes that corporations should pay their fair share of taxes. He proposes raising corporate taxes, especially for large, profitable corporations.
- Enacting environmental regulations. Stiglitz believes that businesses should be held accountable for the environmental damage they cause. He proposes a number of environmental regulations, including carbon pricing and pollution limits.
- Promoting social responsibility. Stiglitz believes that businesses should be good corporate citizens. He proposes a number of policies to promote social responsibility, including requiring businesses to disclose their social and environmental impacts.
Why You Should Read This Book
People, Power, and Profit is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the state of capitalism. Stiglitz offers a clear and concise analysis of the problems with the current system, and he proposes a progressive alternative that is both realistic and achievable. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the economy and how to make it work for everyone.
How to Buy This Book
People, Power, and Profit is available in hardcover, paperback, and audiobook. You can purchase the book from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. You can also find the book at your local library.