In the aftermath of the financial crisis

Economic changes have increased inequality and the sense of inequality in the United States.  A medical emergency or a layoff can send a family into economic ruin.  Go here for a good short article on changes in how Americans see themselves.



 In a time of divisive politics, are leaders in Washington responding?  (see here)



The House Republican budget plan, which could come to the House floor in
April, would prove especially harmful to low- and moderate-income
families and individuals, cutting programs for such people by an
unprecedented amount while taking a strikingly unbalanced approach to
deficit reduction.  It also would be inconsistent with statements of
Republican leaders like House Speaker Paul Ryan that reducing poverty is
a top priority.



The house budget plan is unlikely to be passed.  But it comes at a time when many Americans feel disaffected by Washington (see here).   How much of this is a result of the financial crisis?  That's one thing we will talk about for the next 10 weeks.