A conservative social justice agenda

The poor in America have not been doing well. From 2000 to 2010, mean household incomes in the bottom quintile fell by over $1,500. Though a host of other benefits not counted in that number help to alleviate material need, the numbers show that poor Americans are earning less through their own efforts. That is not progress. And the odds that a child who grows up poor will enter the middle class have not risen since the 1970s. In his just-released Vision Talk — part of a new AEI video series of TED-style talks on pressing policy issues — Arthur Brooks lays out a conservative vision for addressing what he labels the “two Americas” crisis of strong economic growth at the top with little growth, and lots of struggle at the bottom. His is a conservative vision, but not an oppositionist one:

Americans are tired of conservative politicians who only talk about fighting against things. It’s time to say, ‘We will fight for you and your family — whether you vote for us or not.’ And then mean it.

It is a positive vision, and Brooks provides key insights to getting there. The first? Recognize the transformative power of work — its ability to be not just a paycheck, but a social network, a source of identity and dignity, an institution that allows people to contribute their talents and derive value from that contribution. Second, redefine and raise up entrepreneurship. While Horatio Alger stories are undoubtedly inspiring, they don’t reflect the day-in, day-out entrepreneurship that millions more Americans practice over the course of many years. True entrepreneurship is more inclusive — it includes not only building a billion-dollar business, but building and directing a life — for oneself, one’s family, and one’s community.

Third, encourage educational reform. Most educational pipelines, argues Brooks, serve the interests of adults, not kids. Poor kids, not rich ones, are the victims of that mismatch. In a changing economy where education is increasingly central to the ability of kids to be entrepreneurial with their lives and to view work through the lens of dignity, giving poor kids a better shot through improved educational options must be a moral mandate. Check out the talk — it’s a good one.

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