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Three Stories About Capitalism
Video

Three Stories About Capitalism

World.Minds, 2014

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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Innovative
  • Applicable

Recommendation

Does capitalism prey on the downtrodden or provide a path to economic freedom? This debate has pitted liberals against conservatives for decades. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt posits that both narratives offer some truths. His eloquent, entertaining argument proffers a definition for capitalism that may bridge the chasm between both sides of the political debate and create common ground for progress. Though Haidt’s solution is a touch idealistic, getAbstract recommends his worthy report to politicians, business executives, and economic and social reformists.

Take-Aways

  • A “tame problem” – such as an outbreak of cholera – is one in which all experts agree on the cause and solution.
  • A “wicked problem” – such as the polarization of American politics – is one in which experts’ “moral and political values” color their perceptions of the issue so that reaching a consensus on a solution is difficult.
  • Individuals subscribe to one of two stories of capitalism. The first maligns capitalists as opportunistic villains; the second frames capitalism as the path to economic freedom.

About the Speaker

Jonathan Haidt is a professor of ethical leadership at New York University’s Stern School of Business.