GULBENKIAN IDEAS: Let’s Talk about the Future of Equality
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In this Gulbenkian Idea “Let’s Talk about the Future of Equality”, Daniel Markovits explores the concept of meritocratic inequality, an extreme form of economic hierarchy prevalent in the United States. The video delves into the roots and dynamics of this inequality, shedding light on how it has evolved over the past half-century. Unlike traditional forms of economic disparity, meritocratic inequality is tied to winning competitions in education and the workplace, leading to unprecedented wealth concentration among the elite. The video highlights the significant rise in high-end economic inequality in the U.S., attributing it not only to capital's dominance over labor but also to a shift within labor income. This shift favors super-skilled, elite workers over mid-skilled, middle-class workers, transforming the finances of the wealthiest households. Unlike historical economic inequalities, today's elite owe their privilege to labor rather than inherited capital, creating a superordinate working class. Two interlocking phenomena drive this development. First, there is a growing disparity in expenditures on education, with the rich investing substantially more in their children's education compared to the middle class and the poor. This unequal investment leads to significant gaps in academic achievements, perpetuating inequality into adulthood. Second, technological innovations have favored skills produced by elite education, leading to the polarization of the labor market. Mid-skilled jobs are disappearing, while super-skilled jobs are multiplying, concentrating wealth and power among the elite. The paper the author argues that meritocratic inequality resembles the resource curse observed in countries rich in natural resources. In this context, human capital acts as the cursed resource, distorting economies and societies. The feedback loops between exclusive education and skill-biased innovation reinforce elite advantages, marginalize the middle class, and hinder social mobility. This phenomenon, referred to as the human resource curse, not only affects the U.S. but also has the potential to spread globally due to the influence of U.S. institutions and corporations. The paper concludes by suggesting that other societies might learn from the U.S. experience and be forewarned about the consequences of meritocratic inequality. By understanding the underlying dynamics, policymakers and societies can work towards mitigating the negative impacts of extreme economic hierarchy and promoting equality of opportunity.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN FOUNDATION
In his Gulbenkian Idea, "Let’s Talk about the Future of Equality," Philippe Van Parijs eloquently outlines his vision of social justice, providing insightful guidance on three pivotal fronts. Firstly, he advocates for the implementation of an unconditional basic income, a transformative idea that holds the potential to reshape economic landscapes and empower individuals. Secondly, Van Parijs delves into the realm of language policy, emphasizing its crucial role in fostering inclusivity and equal participation. Lastly, he explores the concept of the reconquest of urban public space, envisioning a renewed sense of communal ownership and vibrant civic life. Through these pillars, Van Parijs offers a profound and comprehensive perspective on forging a more equitable future.
