Democratic process produces solutions

We owe much of our prosperity to free market capitalism. But some glaring weaknesses exist.

In labor markets many workers receive such low wages that a decent life is imperiled. In health insurance markets high premiums deny many adequate coverage. And with 45 million on food stamps, the capitalistic market for food is not working well.

These market weaknesses create injustices. So government attempts to offset the injustices with programs such as the minimum wage, the Affordable Care Act and food stamps.

Some complain this is socialism. But socialism is when government owns the means of production such as farms, factories, mines and utilities.

Rather than relying on socialism, in America serious economic problems eventually become political problems requiring political solutions through the democratic process.

Robert Anthony

Cedar Rapids