If You Worry About Civic Inequality, You Should Also Worry About Economic Inequality

policyshop.net — Equality is a funny thing in America. For the most part, Americans don't fret that much about economic inequality and yet are said to believe deeply in civic equality -- the idea that everyone should have an equal say in our democracy and be treated the same under the law, no matter how high or mighty they are. We tend to think it's okay that Bill Gates has a bazillion dollars. But we don't think he should be able to buy politicians or buy his way out of trouble with fancy lawyers. What's weird, though, is how many Americans -- or, more worrisome, elite leaders -- don't get a simple fact of life: Economic inequality always translates into civic inequality. People with lots of money can (and do) use that money to buy political influence and special treatment under the law.

more »