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A Brief History of Equality
Book

A Brief History of Equality

Belknap Press, 2022 plus...


Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Bold
  • Engaging

Recommendation

Followers of all economic schools of thought can appreciate the academic depth and color that economist Thomas Piketty brings to the subject of inequality. His latest work, however, is a focused call for policies that address inequality, including wealth taxes, guaranteed employment and worker participation in company decisions. Piketty argues that his proposals are no more radical than the shifts that occurred in the 20th century. But his most salient point may be that the climate crisis could finally spur economic reform, just as wars and depressions have throughout history.

Take-Aways

  • Between 1914 and 1980, inequality within Western countries declined due to the impacts of two world wars and an economic depression.
  • Progressive taxation and the effects of the welfare state reduced inequality.
  • The success and wealth of Western countries is partly a result of human enslavement and colonial advantage.

About the Author

Thomas Piketty is a professor at the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales and at the Paris School of Economics. His previous books include New York Times bestsellers Capital in the Twenty-First Century and Capital and Ideology.