The world, without a doubt, has changed
dramatically in the space of months. Wall street is facing “the
biggest drop [it has] seen since the crash of 1987.” Also, several people
around the world, including those at risk of contracting the corona virus, are constantly
being pressured to deliver “essential” services to the public. Others,
unfortunately, are forced to live their lives without any rigid source of
income. Who do we turn to during this challenging time? What should we do if
this corona virus pandemic persists for months—if not years? Some, as one might
expect, are beginning to utter statements like “the government must periodically
attend to our needs. It must deposit a certain amount of money in every jobless
American’s bank account on a monthly basis”. This growing mentality clearly
exposes America’s underlying flaws.
Just last month, “President Donald
Trump signed into law a massive $2 trillion emergency economic
package… that includes direct cash payments… for people across the country.” This
step is unlike any other action the government has taken in the past to support
those in need. It’s more radical than all of Bernie Sanders’s potential policies
combined. We, of course, were already expecting this to happen at some point. Thousands,
if not millions, of Americans are currently in need of financial support. Some probably
aren’t feeling the effect of this unprecedented pandemic yet; it may take a
while for them to feel its effect. America, nonetheless, is currently faced
with two tough decisions: Offer financial benefits to unemployed Americans on a
regular basis or retain its ideals by depending on private philanthropic donations
alone. Well, America has always prided itself as an anti-socialistic country; we
can’t afford to go against the ideals of our founding fathers. I must confirm at
this point that I’m not a pro-capitalist. I just find it funny that America
often resorts to socialism and increased government intervention during times
of depression.
What then can be done to fix this issue? Some
might ask. Philanthropy! There’s no better time in the world for philanthropists
to step up. A month ago, Bill Gate “donated $150 million dollars to combat the
spread of corona virus.” Of course, he could have deposited the money in people’s
bank account. He, instead, chose to tackle the root cause of this chaos. We’ve
talked repeatedly in class about the importance of tackling issues head-on.
This, to me, is the only viable way to put an end to this pandemic—while concealing
America’s flaws at the same time. Once this is over, we may continue to criticize
those who hoard money for no apparent reason. But for now, we have to motivate
and compel them to give more.
Many countries around the world are undoubtedly
taking a critical look at America’s current strategy. They are wondering if
America would begin to enforce more socialist policies while this pandemic is ongoing.
Outsiders might laugh at America if that ends up being the case. The reason
behind this, as I said earlier, is simple and straightforward. Prior to this
outbreak, many Americans were—and are still—living in abject poverty. Our
response has always been, “America was founded on capitalism, and poverty is
just its byproduct… Those living in poverty must work hard for what they want!”
“Socialism,” some may say, “has no place in America… Americans mustn’t depend
on the government for food or money”. Who wouldn’t label Americans as hypocrites
if we now decide to ignore these statements? Non-natives may ask, “Does America
really have to wait until an outbreak like this occurs before it comes to the realization
that those struggling financially deserve to be treated fairly?”. Capitalist philanthropists,
nonetheless, have the power to hide America’s hypocrisy—at least for now.
References.
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