@Cheri I don’t know the US so can’t answer your question. Thanks for writing this and for the thoughtful replies you’ve received.

This is an issue common to many countries, some more than others. There is more involved than a b or c.

State capacity to build a society that works for all and helps those who need help. Education and training, an effective civil service that plans for the long term. Serious politicians who work for the common good above all. A progressive taxation system. Effective regulation. Trust and community.

The political process is where the roots of this work begins. Unfortunately, good people are being driven out of politics at this moment in time. But that is a whole other discussion.