Striving for a better society

Professor of Politics John Harles’ recent book, “Seeking Equality: The Political Economy of the Common Good in the U.S. and Canada,” explores the different economic outcomes of two countries that otherwise closely resemble each other.

The book reveals the disparities in the distribution of income and wealth and the percentage of people in poverty are much higher in the U.S. than Canada. 

What is Canada doing differently? Civic values and related public policies get a large part of the credit. “[Canadians] see the government as having a vital role in reducing the inequalities in the name of the common good,” explained Harles.

Ultimately, Harles offers a defense of the ideal of equality: “This isn’t a religious book, per se. But if we are fundamentally equal because a glimpse of the divine is in each of us, then I think certain things follow. One is that the political community should try to meet the basic material needs of its members—for food, shelter, clothing, education, employment, health care and recreation—resources, which at a minimum, are required for a fulfilling and self-directed life. And second, the political process must not privilege the interests of wealth.”

What can the average person in the U.S. do about this issue?

“Perhaps the most fundamental thing is to care about the issue of economic inequality,” urged Harles. “When we participate in the political process, we should do so in the belief that we are all in this together.” 

—Staff report