In a recent piece American Enterprise Institute President and economist Arthur Brooks tackles what might be the definitive political battle of our times: the case for free enterprise. Brooks explains why free enterprise matters to the United States because it allows Americans to pursue their dreams, earn their success and be rewarded for their hard work.
"…the secret to the pursuit of happiness is earning our own success; creating value with our lives and in the lives of others. This earned success is the fruit of hard work and just rewards in a system built on merit. Only in a free enterprise system is effort and innovation rewarded over connections and predation." (full text here)
Arthur Brooks is the President of the American Enterprise Institute and author of the forthcoming book The Road to Freedom (Basic Books: May, 2012).
AEI President Brooks: Value of Free Enterprise Isn't Money or Wealth
What's new on AEI
![]() |
Unleash the private sector |
![]() |
The difference it will make |
![]() |
How the R&D tax credit is like duct tape |
![]() |
From Beijing to Jerusalem |

Join the AEI Media List
AEI's press office frequently sends press advisories highlighting the availability of scholars to discuss particular news topics, as well as recent AEI products (such as studies, articles, and testimonies). Please enter your contact information below to be added to our media list.
In the Media
AEI on Facebook
Events Calendar
-
20
MON -
21
TUE -
22
WED -
23
THU -
24
FRI
Tuesday, May 21, 2013 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Free beer: Liberating libations from ‘Bootleggers and Baptists’
Join us for a discussion of the history and future of federal and state alcohol regulation and competition, followed by a reception with beer, wine, and spirits.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
NCLB sanctions: Tests taken, lessons learned
Join education scholars and practitioners for a discussion about the latest NCLB research and its implications for future education policy.
Thursday, May 23, 2013 | 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Competing visions of the common good: Rethinking help for the poor
What shared commitments do we have as citizens and neighbors to care for one another? How can a proper ordering of America’s political economy enable the most people to have the best life? At this event, Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), a longtime champion of human rights causes, and AEI President Arthur Brooks will join Wallis in addressing these and other questions.
No events scheduled this day.
No events scheduled this day.
No events scheduled this day.
No events scheduled today.
No events scheduled this day.
Don't Miss...







