The past few years have been challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic, supply-chain problems, inflation, rising oil prices, and the war in Ukraine have all posed challenges to the United States economy. The country has considered different policies for responding to these challenges. Some argue that the government needs to intervene more directly in the economy to manage it to ensure it remains stable. Others argue that the government should not intervene in the private market and only worsens problems. 

Those who argue that the U.S. government should be more involved in the economy contend that it has a responsibility to do so in order to look out for the economic well-being of Americans. They argue that the government should enact policies during recessions that “prime the pump” for recovery with increased spending on programs to get the economy “moving” again. This side contends that the federal government is best suited to be more involved in the economy since our country is so interconnected and leaving it to the states will only offer piecemeal solutions.  

Those who argue that the government should not be more involved in the economy argue that policymakers tend to increase economic problems rather than solve them. They argue that instead of government intervention, the government should take a laissez-faire or “hands off” policy with the economy. The government should promote the ability of individuals to freely make decisions in their purchases and sales, which will ultimately lead to increased economic prosperity. They may also argue that government involvement should be limited to the state level as states have the best knowledge about local issues. 

So, what do you think? Should the U.S. Government Become More Involved in the Economy? Students can answer Yes, it should; No, it should not; or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your answer by 3/31 to be considered for this week’s contest. 

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:  

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner 
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers  
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors  
• They address counter-arguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner  
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 3/17/22 to 3/31/22, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

(For rules/regulations click HERE)