theguardian.com
Abundance": A Supply-Side Approach to Progressive Policy
Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson's new book, "Abundance", argues that progressive policies often exacerbate scarcity by increasing demand for limited resources, advocating instead for a supply-side approach focused on building more infrastructure and renewable energy to alleviate scarcity and reduce costs.
- How do Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson's arguments in "Abundance" challenge traditional progressive approaches to addressing scarcity in the US, and what specific policy changes do they propose?
- Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson's "Abundance" argues that progressive policies often worsen scarcity by increasing demand for limited resources. They advocate for a "supply-side" approach focusing on building more housing, infrastructure, and renewable energy to alleviate scarcity and reduce costs.
- What are some of the major criticisms levied against "Abundance", and how do these critiques relate to broader debates within the American left regarding economic policy and political strategy?
- The book contrasts the US's wealth with its scarcity in essential areas like housing, highlighting how traditional progressive solutions, like subsidies, can inadvertently drive up prices. Examples cited include a stalled high-speed rail project in California and slow broadband rollout despite federal funding.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the "abundance liberalism" framework proposed in the book, and how might its adoption reshape the political landscape and the policy priorities of the Democratic Party?
- Abundance" suggests that the left needs a shift in focus, from simply redistributing resources to creating more of them. This requires overcoming obstacles like NIMBYism and overly complex legislation, and embracing techno-optimism and streamlined processes to achieve ambitious goals more efficiently. The book's reception highlights divisions within the left over the approach.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article emphasizes the criticisms of progressive policies and presents Klein and Thompson's 'abundance liberalism' as a potential solution. The headline and introduction immediately establish this focus, potentially influencing the reader's interpretation of the issues before presenting alternative viewpoints. The positive reception of Abundance is highlighted early, while critiques are presented later. The selection and sequencing of information seem to favor the perspective that progressive policies have failed and a new approach is needed.
Language Bias
While generally neutral in tone, the article uses language that subtly favors the critique of progressive policies. Phrases like 'giant billboards against liberal governance' and 'overdue for a reckoning' carry negative connotations and suggest a failure of existing approaches. The description of the ideal future presented in Abundance as 'close to utopia' is also potentially loaded, as the term 'utopia' is subjective and implies a significant improvement over the current state.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the failures of progressive policies and the arguments of Klein and Thompson, but gives less attention to counterarguments or alternative perspectives on the issues raised. While acknowledging some criticisms, the depth of analysis into opposing viewpoints is limited, potentially creating an incomplete picture for the reader. For example, the role of corporate influence and Republican policies in creating or exacerbating the problems discussed is mentioned but not fully explored. This omission might mislead readers into believing the issues are solely attributable to progressive failures or flawed implementation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the debate as a choice between the current progressive approach and the 'abundance liberalism' proposed by Klein and Thompson. It simplifies a complex issue with multiple contributing factors and potential solutions, neglecting other policy approaches that could address the problems mentioned. The portrayal suggests a simple either-or choice, when the reality is more nuanced and potentially involves a combination of strategies.
Sustainable Development Goals
The book promotes policies aimed at increasing the supply of essential resources (housing, energy, etc.) to reduce scarcity and lower costs, thus benefiting lower-income individuals and reducing inequality. The authors criticize traditional progressive solutions that can inadvertently exacerbate inequality by increasing demand for already scarce resources.