The Case for Capitalism

Editor's Note

William McKenzie

Making capitalism work for all

Capitalism vs. Socialism is the Wrong Way to Frame Today's Economic Debate

Richard Reeves, Ryan Streeter

Ryan Streeter and Richard Reeves start from different points on the philosophical spectrum, but they share a common belief: The debate between capitalism and socialism is a false choice. They feel that Americans instead are searching for ways to express their frustration with the workings of capitalism today, not their support for socialism.

Millennials Want an Economy That Works Better and More Fairly — No Matter What You Call It

Carroll Doherty

The Pew Research Center asked Americans how they feel about and define “socialism” and “capitalism” — with insightful results.

Growing the Economy — Inclusively

Christie Myers, Maggie Parker

The nature of capitalism is competition — but not everyone begins at the same starting line. A focus on neighborhoods and community revitalization can provide solutions for economic growth.

Young Creatives Are Driving the Rise of the New Innovation Economy

S. Craig Watkins

Young people are coming of age during of significant change and transition — and are leading the way by bringing about new models of work, career, and entrepreneurship.

An Economy Where All Can Flourish

Abby M. McCloskey

While the current debate is primarily focused on capitalism and socialism, we should start with something we all agree on: human flourishing.

Five Questions to Ask — and Answers to Know — About the U.S.-China Relationship

Henry M. Paulson, Jr.

An adversarial relationship with China, rather than a strategically competitive one, could have ripple effects throughout the U.S. economy.

Addressing U.S. Border Security through Economic Partnership with Central America

Matthew Rooney

Central America faces numerous challenges, but we should continue to partner with the region as leaders find solutions for long-term growth.

Capitalism is (Slowly) Winning Around the World

Robert A. Lawson

Liberalism — the view that places individual citizens at the center of power by combining democracy, human rights, and economic freedom — has delivered prosperity in every place it has been allowed to exist. Recent challenges from the far left (socialism) and the far right (nationalism) have slowed liberalism’s expansion, but reason for optimism remains.

Capitalism and Social Good Can Co-Exist

Ken Hersh

Business models are adapting to include more than just monetary profit as a part of the bottom line. Effective leaders are needed to lead the charge in considering the needs of all stakeholders — including communities, employees, suppliers, customers, and shareholders.

Listening to Adam Smith, Gordon Gekko, and Dilbert: A Human Approach to Capitalism

Alexander McCobin

While capitalism faces criticism for failing to serve the people, the concept of conscious capitalism recognizes the benefits a system of free exchange has brought humanity over the last 200 years.

Immigrant Entrepreneurs Drive Main Street's Growth

Laura Collins

In cities and towns in all reaches of America, businesses started by immigrants are critical pieces of the fabric of our economy and communities.

Fast Times at Capitalism High: What Young People Need to Thrive

Anne Wicks

Critical to the American system are citizens that actively participate in its democracy. What do young Americans need to be prepared for our fast-moving capitalist democracy?

Why America’s Free Market Economy Works Better in Some Places than Others

J.H. Cullum Clark

Is America’s free market system working as advertised? Mostly yes, but it depends to a surprising degree on where you live.