Progressivism Topic for Panel

What our country needs, Professor Michael J. Sandel said only half-jokingly in a panel discussion last night, is a presidential debate between Patrick J. Buchanan and Professor Cornel R. West '74.

Sandel and West, professors of government, and Afro-American studies respectively, gave their prescriptions for a more representative and equitable society last night at the Kennedy School before a crowd of several hundred.

Yesterday's panel was inspired by West's latest book, "The Future of American Progressivism," written in collaboration with Professor of Law Roberto M. Unger.

West defined his goal as keeping track of the "night-side" or those members of society usually excluded from privilege.

He argued that this group is more prominent in American society than in other countries because of the great disparity between racial groups.

West also railed against growing income inequality and urged an empowered labor force.

"Without counterveiling forces, managerial greed will run amuck," West said.

West recognized that all his hopes for the future rest on "putting children first."

Sandel praised West's book for addressing essential questions.

When asked by moderator Marvin Kalb, Murrow professor of press, politics and public policy at the Kennedy School, if he saw any hope in the political landscape, Sandel cited the conservative right.

"The people who are posing those questions--and giving terrible answers--are the right," Sandel said. "I wish Patrick Buchanan had won the nomination, so Bill Clinton would have had to address his questions."

In opposing former Senator Bob Dole, Clinton was able to rest on his superior political skills and take centrist stances, Sandel said.

"Politics, at least the two major parties, seems incapable of addressing important questions," Sandel said.

Sandel said the increasingly global economy poses a challenge for today's society.

"With such a global economy, how can it be true any longer that we are in an era of self-government?" Sandel said.

Sandel urged an emphasis on "transnational" control of the economy, but a national government with more emphasis on personal responsibility.

The two panelists disagreed on the question of whether citizens should be required to vote. West felt that it was necessary for an empowered citizenry, but Sandel thought it would naturally happen after more fundamental issues were addressed.

Both speakers were hopeful that their visions would be realized, but acknowledged significant social and economic barriers.