Who’s really working class in America?
Summary
Host Meghna Chakrabarti and labor economist Catherine Ann Edwards explore the evolving definition of the American working class, moving beyond traditional manual labor to include anyone facing economic precarity. They discuss how political narratives often narrow this identity to white men, while listener stories reveal that even six-figure earners struggle with basic survival costs. The episode argues for a broader understanding of working class status based on job quality and financial insecurity rather than just income levels.
Topics discussed
Intro, sponsors, and Dickens' description of Coketown
Historical origins and evolving definitions of the working class
Interview with Catherine Ann Edwards on labor economics
Political framing of the white working class and exclusion
Expanding the definition to include care work and job quality
Case study: Christina's financial precarity despite high income
Defining working class by precarity, pay, and job security
NYC Mayor Mamdani's broad definition and political implications
US economic eras, conservative policies, and future outlook
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