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August 7, 2010

The Economy, The Poor, and Our Responsibilities

Jack and Jill Politics embedded a fascinating interview with Dr. Cornel West:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy


I find it incredibly important to think deeply about Dr. West's message. It adds to the conversation that A Mohit began on Technorati recently on the systematic destruction of the middle class in the U.S.

This week's Torah portion, Re'eh (Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17), includes the commandment to take care of the needy. Some may say this means a community should provide the poor with the bare minimum of food, shelter, and health care. For me, it is an entry point to question the great disparity between the rich and the poor.

It is not enough to simply ameliorate suffering. Rather, we must determine the root of the problem: is the wealth of the rich created on the backs of the poor?

I believe there are fundamental problems with the U.S. economy, a system that is tilted in favor of the few, with constant bailouts and tax breaks for the wealthy, while the middle class disappears and the poor are kept docile through credit cards, mass entertainment, and the delusional myth of "the American dream."

I look forward toward fundamental policy changes that support human growth and allow all citizens equal opportunity.

Posted by cj at August 7, 2010 6:51 PM

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