We bring together scholars across disciplines to discuss the causes and consequences of inequality and strategies to promote economic mobility. Listen and discover novel insights and strategies to address today’s most pressing issues in inequality.
Daniel Markovits shares his main critiques of meritocracy while Steven outlines his proposal to adopt a prospective, rather than retrospective, view of meritocracy in this panel discussion. Dean of the Harris School, Ethan Bueno de Mesquita moderates the conversation.
What if societies focused less on inequality reduction and more on lifting living standards? Lane Kenworthy makes the case for this shift and discusses what American debates over so-called "socialist" politicians miss about democratic socialism.
Americans often see poverty as the result of individual choices rather than structural forces. David Brady joins Geoff Wodtke to discuss myths shaping poverty policy, what it would take for government to make progress, and whether institutions or protest drive change.
Can meritocracy be separated from inequality? Political theorist Jahel Queralt offers a vision of meritocracy that structures fair opportunities instead of defending unequal outcomes. She joins Steven Durlauf to discuss her version of a just meritocracy.
Meritocracy promises rewards based on talent and effort rather than privilege. Critics argue that merit is often shaped by inherited advantages. Philosopher Thomas Mulligan argues for a just conception of meritocracy and explains how it might be possible.
Philip Kitcher reflects on the values that shape public policy, arguing that economic efficiency has increasingly displaced ethical concerns. He discusses inequality, education, and why a healthier society requires a renewed commitment to the common good.
Why are workers doing more than ever in an age of specialization? Stanford Sociologist Michelle Jackson examines how jobs accumulated new responsibilities over time and reflects on what bolder approaches to education, family, and opportunity could mean for inequality.
What are the implications of declining unionization in United States? Tom VanHeuvelen examines historical drivers of deunionization and recent "right-to-work" laws. As he reflects on the benefits of unions, he also considers the future of American labor and economy.
How do class, gender, and race intersect to shape inequality? In this episode, Leslie McCall examines labor market change and public attitudes, challenging common assumptions about meritocracy, mobility, and who benefits in today’s economy.
How do legal systems extort the poor? Joe Soss examines how social welfare programs and incarceration have contributed to the financial crises of impoverished Americans. He reflects on the mobility barriers posed by the legal system's increased scrutiny of the poor.
