Is Globalization Really Fueling Populism?

An angry populism – a belief that ordinary citizens, not elites, should control government while avoiding centrism and compromise – is on the rise in Europe and the United States. Daniel Gros questions the suggestion that the so-called losers of globalization are fueling such populism, suggesting the trends are not new. Inequality in education levels is not new, and workers with more education have long attracted higher wages. The proportion of unskilled workers to educated workers has actually declined in recent years. He points to two sides to populism – a hardline version that opposes immigration, while embracing nationalism and severe cuts in government programs and a leftist version that endorses unrealistic subsidies and benefits. The essay concludes that globalization and modern challenges are complex. Governments must respond, regulate and recalibrate on the many connections. Voters should not trust the candidates who suggest the fixes are quick, easy or obvious. – YaleGlobal