Episode Description: Addressing Economic Inequality in America

In this episode of Checks and Balance from The Economist, the focus is on economic inequality in America and the proposed solutions to address it. Income inequality in America is either increasing or remains stubbornly high, according to some measures, making it a pressing issue for both the left and the right.

Surprisingly, there is a convergence of views on economic inequality between some Republican politicians and policy wonks and their Democratic counterparts. This convergence opens up the possibility of finding common ground and implementing effective solutions.

Various proposed solutions to economic inequality are explored in this episode. These include implementing industrial policies, increasing government benefits for families, and empowering workers through new management structures. Thomas Piketty, a renowned economist, argues for a return to a more socialist system with higher taxes on the wealthy and greater government intervention in the economy.

However, despite the convergence on economic thinking, there is still significant divergence on cultural and social issues. This divergence may hinder the implementation of legislative solutions to address economic inequality. The episode delves into the challenges posed by these differences and explores potential ways to bridge the gap.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of Checks and Balance to gain a deeper understanding of economic inequality in America and the proposed solutions that could shape its future.

By some measures, in the aftermath of the pandemic, income inequality in America is either increasing or remaining stubbornly high. On the left, the gap between rich and poor has long been an urgent issue—and more people on the right now agree. As both sides of the aisle look for solutions, they are reaching some surprisingly similar conclusions. What are the proposed answers to economic inequality in America? How likely are they to be taken up?

Economist Thomas Piketty talks us through the state of economic inequality in America and some of the left’s proposals to reduce it. And Oren Cass of American Compass, a think tank, explains a new wave of conservative solutions to inequality.

John Prideaux hosts with Charlotte Howard and Idrees Kahloon.

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