We The Economy

Why does the U.S. fund foreign aid? The United States spends approximately $37 billion dollars a year on foreign aid – just under 1% of our federal budget. THE FOREIGN AID PARADOX zeroes in on food aid to Haiti and how it affects American farming and shipping interests as well as Haiti ‘s own agricultural markets. The result: a surprising study in unintended consequences. Think U.S. foreign aid is just a big giveaway to other countries? Think again. Often, it benefits farmers, manufacturers and shippers right here at home. But U.S. aid is always good for the countries we give it to, right? Well, it ‘s not so simple.

What is the global trade system? What does it mean to have a globalized economy? And is it good for us? Bob Balaban wrangles seven experts to break it all down as a troupe of comedic actors enliven the commentary.

What happens when jobs disappear? Detroit has been the poster child for the loss of well-paid manufacturing jobs, but this trend impacts communities all over the country. How does a great American city bounce back?

Is China ‘s boom good for our economy? “Made by China in America” turns a cinematic lens on the interconnected narratives of everyday workers, leaders and business executives, and local community members in South Carolina, providing a nuanced perspective on China ‘s economic boom, version 2.0, and its promising impact on the U.S. economy.

What do human rights have to do with the economy? As consumers in a rapidly growing world economy, we have an insatiable appetite for the next greatest electronic gadget, like smartphones and TVs. But can we consume cheap imported products without exploiting someone in the supply chain?

Why is healthcare so expensive? A hapless patient journeys through the of labyrinth of US healthcare and is left with a headache and sticker-shock.

Why is the law of supply and demand so powerful? A whimsical tale of love, dance and the economic concept of supply and demand. Bored in class, JONATHAN and KRISTIN are woken up by our friendly NARRATOR who helps guide them on an adventure in economics and…um…dance.

Are natural resources vital to the economy? Why should nature be taken into account when looking at the economy as a whole? A Bee’s Invoice uncovers and incorporates the hidden value of natural capital in the measurement of our economy.