Challenging Wealth and Income Inequality

From religious leaders to heads of state, everyone is talking about economic inequality. What form can such inequality take in different countries? What impact does it have on society? And why should it matter to you? Has the baby boomer generation had it all? This free online course will explore the growing concerns surrounding rising inequality in income and wealth in developed countries. You’ll scrutinise claims that the baby boomer generation has had it all, in terms of pension deals and affordable houses, while social and political changes have left younger generations struggling to find security for their accommodation and retirement income. You’ll examine the causes and implications of growing economic inequalities and what can be done about them, by individuals, communities and governments. Can we create a fair deal for everyone? This four-week course is extremely timely: everyday a news report mentions the growing gap between rich and poor. In many countries, politicians and social movements are arguing about austerity policies and the future of the welfare state and public services, and how to come out of the crisis with a fair deal for everyone. You’ll explore many different alternatives to achieve a more equal world for generations to come. Your course guides are Dr Jerome De Henau, Senior Lecturer in Economics at The Open University, and Jonquil Lowe, Lecturer in Personal Finance at The Open University. You can find out more about what to expect from this course in their post for the FutureLearn blog: “Myths or realities: what do we know about wealth and income inequality?”