Understanding Economic Inequality: Bigger Pies and Just Desserts

Over the past 25 years, two billion people have risen out of poverty, but in the US, the top 1% earn twice as much as the bottom 50%. Economic dissatisfaction is higher than in the 1930s, driven by the fear of falling behind. This book provides insights into economic inequality and its impact on society, politics, and paychecks, and is valuable for undergraduate courses on wealth and income inequality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2021
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd

Over the past quarter-century, approximately two billion individuals worldwide have emerged from poverty, while global income levels have experienced substantial growth. However, in the United States, the top 1% of earners hold twice as much income as the lowest 50% of the population. Despite the prevailing prosperity, economic discontentment, fueled by the pervasive anxiety among many that they are falling behind, has reached levels not seen since the 1930s.

In his book, Understanding Economic Inequality, the author offers an economist's perspective, enriched by groundbreaking research on inequality drawn from philosophy, sociology, psychology, and political science. Presented in a manner accessible to a broad audience, this book aims to enhance understanding of our world, society, politics, income, and the incomes of our neighbors. As a crucial component of any account of the 21st century, the insights provided by the author will be of immense value to readers. Furthermore, this book serves as a foundational resource for undergraduate courses on wealth and income inequality, as well as an essential reading for introductory economics, labor economics, public policy, law, and sociology courses.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802203240