It took a quarter-century for America to establish the minimum wage in 1938. It quickly became one of the most popular things governments do. So why hasn’t Congress raised the minimum wage in more than a decade? Because economists are divided about its impact. But the reason citizens support a higher minimum wage may have nothing to do with economics. It may be about fairness.
Unemployment Insurance
A big reason the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020 did not cause an economic collapse is because of unemployment insurance, which tided families over until the economy began its revival. Actually, this isn’t anything new for unemployment insurance, which has served as an “automatic stabilizer” for the American economy since 1935. It’s also a good example of how states and the federal government work together.
Human Genome Project
A scientific breakthrough occurred in 2003. It was the mapping of the human genome, which is creating medical advances that will touch every human on earth. The indispensable partner in this great discovery was the federal government. What did the government ask in return? You may be surprised to learn. And delighted.
Sidewalks and Trails
Sidewalks were invented in big cities in the 1800s as a way of separating people from the filth of streets. They found a second use in the 20th century as a way of separating pedestrians from automobiles. After World War II, sidewalks declined in popularity, only to rise again in recent decades along with urban trails. Throughout, governments have been the key to pedestrian access.
Disaster Relief
You can learn a lot about government by studying disaster relief. You can see how federalism works, and why it sometimes doesn’t. You can learn about scale and proximity. You can see why best practices are important in crises. Finally, you’ll learn why professionalism, focus, and good management are as necessary for government as they are for business.