The Forgotten Man

"The Forgotten Man" is a concept popularized by economist William Graham Sumner and later associated with various social and political discussions. It refers to the average individual or group—often workers or taxpayers—whose contributions support government programs, social safety nets, or economic stability. These individuals are considered "forgotten" because their efforts and sacrifices are sometimes overlooked amid debates over resource allocation, redistribution, or government intervention. The idea highlights the importance of acknowledging the role of ordinary citizens in maintaining society and questions how policies impact those who may not receive direct benefits but enable broader economic and social functions.