Robert Solow in Conversation with Paul Krugman: "Inequality: What Can Be Done?"

On May 1, 2015, Robert Solow (Professor of Economics, Emeritus, MIT) and Paul Krugman (Distinguished Professor of Economics, The Graduate Center, beginning Fall 2015) discussed Anthony B. Atkinson’s new book, “Inequality: What Can Be Done?” (Harvard University Press, 2015: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.p...) at the Russell Sage Foundation in New York City.

Solow and Krugman’s conversation was introduced and moderated by LIS Director Janet Gornick, professor of Political Science and Sociology at the Graduate Center.

The British economist and renowned inequality scholar Tony Atkinson (Oxford and London School of Economics) argues that economic inequality has reached unacceptable levels in many countries. In this ambitious book, Atkinson lays out an agenda for reducing inequality. His policy proposals span five areas: technology, employment, the sharing of capital, taxation, and social security.

“Inequality: What Can Be Done” is a vigorous and powerful call to action, rich in theory, evidence, and practical experience. Solow and Krugman examine the desirability, viability, and feasibility of Atkinson’s policy recommendations—with an eye toward translating his arguments into the United States context.

Further, Atkinson discussed the book in a 35-minute presentation taped in London, April 2015:    • Inequality: What can be done?  .

Sponsored by the Luxembourg Income Study (LIS) Center