Century Quote by Paul Krugman
“Yes, over the centuries economic progress has reduced some gross disparities - modern Americans are relatively unlikely to simply starve to death (though it can happen), so in that sense the gap between rich and poor has narrowed. But the question isn't whether society is, in some sense, more equal than it was in 1900. It's whether it is radically more unequal than it was in 1970. And of course it is.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Atlantic, “The Growing Gap Between Rich and Poor”, 2015
Economic growth has lessened extreme poverty but income inequality has risen sharply since the 1970s, making modern society more unequal than before.
In simple terms: Growth eased starvation but widened income gaps.
Key Takeaway
Address policies that reduce inequality.
Themes
income inequality
economic history
policy
social justice
Mood
concerned
analytical
Type
analytical
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- public debates
- policy making
- academic research
- media commentary
Key Concepts
progressive taxation
wealth redistribution
labor rights
education access
Questions to Reflect On
- How can policy counteract rising inequality?
- What measures best reduce wealth concentration?
A Different Perspective
Economic growth does not automatically ensure equitable outcomes.
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