ADMISSION PAPER
#Question 2
This economic disparity has become an undeniable force in American life, with experts observing that it provides an avenue for discrimination. This paper will argue how, rather than give a solution to the problems of sexism and racism, economic inequality contributes to the issues.
Many racial groups within the American population, including African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and others, have historically faced severe discrimination. This discrimination comes in different forms, including income opportunities. According to (InequalityOrg, 2019), among fortune 500 CEOs in 2018, only four were black and ten Latinos. Collectively, the minority executives made approximately 14.5 million dollars, which was less than 3% of the total. This underlines not only white favoritism but also the stark income difference that exists between the white majority and other racial and ethnic minorities.
Another indicator of racial disparity at the top of the American earnings scale is the minimum entry into the top 10%. The Pew Research Center notes that the threshold for white families to make into this level (annual income of at least $117, 986) is twice as much as that of black families. While drawing from this observation, it is clear that the black minorities are openly discriminated against. In contrast to their white counterparts, their average annual income is significantly lower.
Despite the progress made, divides still exist between men’s and women’s economic empowerment and opportunities. While today women have access to the same education enjoyed by men, they are often offered limited opportunities. Similarly, despite the same qualifications, employers still prefer male employees. In 2016, by contrast, women represented 5% of the Fortune 500 firms’ CEOs. Besides, white males specifically, dominate most of the lucrative positions in the job market. They also make up a majority of the top earners across the U.S., even though women make up half of the American workforce.
Economic inequality is a significant contributor to most forms of discrimination, including sexism and racism. It offers a platform through which minority groups are exploited and taken advantage of rather than provide an access route for solving the injustices. However, with proper legislation, economic inequality can be leveraged to support the empowerment of the U.S. minority groups.
#Question 4
Introduction
Owing to its military might, a vast economy, and leading roles in global bodies such as the U.N., the U.S. is rightly a superpower (Zhou, 2019). Despite the emergence of nations like China and Russia, the global dominance of the U.S. necessitates that it leads the way in the occurrence of global issues/problems. As the superpower, I believe it is the U.S.’s obligation to the lead its close allies, and by extension, the free-world during and after pandemics, and in consultation with other players make crucial decisions.
It is in the best interest of the U.S. to provide support (monetary or otherwise) to its allies during global pandemics such as the one we are witnessing (COVID-19 pandemic). Given its foremost economic power, the nation can offer the highest quantifiable amount of international aid to partner countries that need assistance. Such actions are essential, especially since they will cement the relationship between the U.S. and other countries. Besides, by doing this, the U.S. will be safeguarding its interests in particular states.
Subsequently, U.S. cultural influence extends well beyond the U.S. borders. For instance, close two billion people speak American version of English. Therefore, the U.S. can reach a wider population spread around the globe. This makes it the better placed country to chat the way for others to follow. Additionally, as the “global police,” U.S.’s primary role across the world is to ensure that there is stability, and humanity survives pandemics among other disasters. Therefore, when faced with such calamities, the president, with permission from congress, can decide to intervene. However, in the absence of consensus, I believe the final decision should rest with the president.
The global political arena is more complicated than it may seem. However, I believe, since the U.S. is the superpower and has also invested vast resources in the quest for global peace and the general well-being of its friends, it must protect its interests. But, this decision should be made by the president in consultation with other stakeholders, including congress.
References
InequalityOrg. (2019). Racial economic Inequality. Retrieved from Inequality: https://inequality.org/facts/racial-inequality/
Zhou, C. (2019, June 22). Is America still the world’s only superpower or is China a real rival? Experts aren’t so sure anymore. Retrieved from abc News: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-06-23/united-states-still-the-worlds-only-superpower/11195636