News and perspective on public policy issues affecting Washington's economy and quality of life, brought to you by the Economic Opportunity Institute.
Did you know if the minimum wage had kept up with productivity since the late 1960s, it would be about $18 per hour? Or that countries joining the European Union are required to provide workers at least four weeks paid vacation? This would all be old news if you were at our Monday evening salon […]
From the Huffington Post: Everyone I know is in favor of trade done right. Recently, I heard a congressman explain how investors interpret that. From that perspective, trade is done right when the investor’s property is protected from capricious foreign governments who might snatch property. I think he meant Hugo Chavez or Fidel Castro — […]
Updated 10/26/2012 An editorial in my local paper is a good example of how we trivialize our public discussion of globalization and trade policy. The editorial follows this logic: Trade is good. All trade is good. More trade is better than less trade. Maximum possible trade! Anyone who disagrees is protectionist or resentful. I can […]
Guest post by Stan Sorscher In a somewhat contentious Town Hall meeting, some of my Congressmember’s constituents, including me, were challenging his adherence to “free trade” policies. In his defense he said, “Go watch The Constant Gardener.” So I did. Many scenes are shot in Africa, with vivid images of urban slums and timeless poverty, […]
