Economic Growth and Inequality

Economic Growth and Inequality critically evaluates the economic literature on this question from a pragmatic perspective, seeking to reconcile those who regard economic liberties as a paramount value, and critics who object that prioritizing these liberties leads to inequitable outcomes.

In an era of increasing inequalities, and also of deep anxieties about the consequences of two major economic crises, economists are faced with a major question: can economic growth be achieved without inequalities? Economic Growth and Inequality critically evaluates the economic literature on this question from a pragmatic perspective, seeking to reconcile those who regard economic liberties as a paramount value, and critics who object that prioritizing these liberties leads to inequitable outcomes.

The book presents an overview of the models used by economists to define and measure inequalities and the ongoing dialogues between political philosophers and economists in an effort to find solutions to the problems. It explores Rawlsian justice, Sen's capability theory, and the theory of rent and compares and contrasts the most often discussed institutions and policies designed for remedying poverty and reducing inequalities.

This book marks a significant contribution to the literature on some of the most pressing problems of our time and will be of great interest to readers of political economy, public policy, moral philosophy, and history of economic and political thought.

Autorentext

Laurent Dobuzinskis teaches Political Science at Simon Fraser University. He has written on a wide range of issues relevant to political economy. His most recent contribution to the field is Moral Discourse in the History of Economic Thought (Routledge 2022).

Inhalt

FOREWORD

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER 2 EQUALITY OF WELFARE: THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES (WELFARE ECONOMICS)

CHAPTER 3 EQUALITY OF WELFARE: EMPIRICAL PERSPECTIVES

CHAPTER 4 EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY: CLASSICAL LIBERAL PERSPECTIVES

CHAPTER 5 EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY: EGALITARIAN PERSPECTIVES

CHAPTER 6 WHAT TO DO ABOUT ECONOMIC INEQUALITIES: POLICY OPTIONS