No sane politician would argue that handicapping African-Americans is a worthy goal. Studies like these, based on verifiable facts, can be important political points. Though still unacceptable, white men can expect a rate of return of more than twice as much. African-American females can also expect a lower rate of return than their white counterparts. These differences arise because of the differences in life expectancy and career earnings.
Race is a powerful factor in American politics.
It is also a factor that can and must be given attention in the privatization debate. As we move further into this debate, we must not allow the focus to fall on a minuscule increase in solvency or a temporarily fluctuating stock market. Instead, the debate over Social Security privatization must focus on the policy, and by necessity the politics, of the best way to reform an antiquated system. The Beacon Journal Publishing Co.