The Chaotic Entanglement of Politics and the Economy

“Every day is more collateral damage…”

Recorded on September 5, 2018

The US economy looks to be growing steadily, but economists including Rinaldo continue to forecast a large recession in the near future. How do these two realities line up? On the show this month we discuss economic indicators and the effects that current events have on the economy, consumer confidence, and personal spending power. We discuss the effects of the charged political climate, the consequences of targeting immigrants, and the lack of reason behind a prolonged war in Afghanistan. We also focus on the role of the U.S. in the global system and ways everyday Americans might feel the fallout from politically driven economic decisions.

As the U.S. backs out of leading the international order and fights a trade war that will have no winners, other countries’ experience can provide insight into how economics and politics are intertwined. By reflecting on how other economies have weathered their sometimes self-inflicted problems, we might get some ideas on how to fix the problems plaguing our society – or what the outcomes might be if we don’t. We discuss trends in Venezuela, Turkey, China, and Argentina and examine the spectrum of actions the US can take and their outcomes. Even in the face of increasing challenges, it may still possible to be optimistic about the future.

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