10.06.2011

On an Occupied WallSteet: A Solution


How might the OccupyWallSreet movement effect the changes they seek in the American system? 

To start, by leveling the economic playing field.  The current system requires manufacturers within the US to meet pollution, labor, wage, healthcare and other standards.  These standards impose costs on manufacturers, with the intent of benefiting society.  These standards of manufacturing are not required for goods imported from abroad.  America has thus imposed a double standard, and the American worker suffers as a result of this contradiction.  In the US hourly compensation for production workers was $23.82 in 2006, compared to around $8.00 an hour in Asia (Source).  Not to mention the staggering environmental compliance costs.  Why build American when there are far less costly foreign alternatives?  Competition almost requires corporations to avail themselves of these alternatives.

A solution to the complaints put forth by OccupyWallSreet might be found in advocating for the implementation of regulations requiring that all imported goods meet the same standards as those goods manufactured within the US.  This would level the economic playing field and encourage better working conditions across the globe.  Corporations export or avoid much of the cost of production by manufacturing and importing from aboard, including significant environmental costs.  This solution encourages a higher environmental standard as well.  

By requiring basic pollution, labor, wage and similar standards for all imported goods, America could solve its unemployment woes.  By leveling the playing field, not only would the US raise the global manufacturing standard, it would make its own workers competitive again.  Just as cars must meet safety and pollution standards to be sold within the US regardless of where they are built, so too all goods should meet the basic working and manufacturing standards required here.


Written in conjunction with Larry Grange.  We would appreciate any comments on these thoughts. 

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