The Detailed Research - Part 1

As we move on from the introduction, let's delve straight into the research! Obviously, it's pretty long thus, we have divided this into separate parts, so let us see how many they are

Inequality – SDG 5 & 10

Introduction

Inequality is a complex and multifaceted issue that impacts societies on various levels. This report delves into the topic of inequality, with a focus on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 and 10, which aim to achieve gender equality and reduce inequality within and among countries, respectively. To comprehensively address this topic, this report is divided into five sections, each exploring different facets of inequality. These sections are:

1. Defining and Measuring Inequality
2. Income Inequality, Capability Inequality, and Well-being
3. Desirability and Consequences of Inequality
4. Causes and Consequences of Inequality
5. Addressing the Causes of Inequality

To address these sections, we will draw from a variety of scholarly sources, including the works of renowned economists and researchers like Richard Wilkinson, Kate Pickett, Thomas Piketty, Amartya Sen, and Anthony B. Atkinson, among others. These references will provide a solid foundation for exploring the topic of inequality in-depth and help policymakers make informed decisions.

1. Defining and Measuring Inequality

Defining and measuring inequality is fundamental to understanding the scope and depth of the problem. Inequality can be broadly categorized into two types: inter-country inequality and intra-country inequality.

Inter-country Inequality: This refers to the disparities in income and development levels between different nations. Global inequality is often measured by comparing the income or GDP per capita of different countries. Notable works like Thomas Piketty's “Capital in the Twenty-First Century” highlight the historical trends in global inequality and the role of capital accumulation in perpetuating disparities.

Intra-country Inequality: This focuses on disparities within a single nation. Income inequality is commonly measured using the Gini coefficient, which quantifies how income is distributed among individuals or households in a given country. For example, a Gini coefficient of 0 indicates perfect equality, where everyone has the same income, while a coefficient of 1 indicates perfect inequality, where one person or household has all the income.

It's important to note that inequality is not limited to income. Education, healthcare, access to basic services, and opportunities also contribute to intra-country inequality. Therefore, policymakers must consider a multidimensional approach when addressing inequality within their borders.

Gini Index for Income Inequality

OECD countries ranked according to their Gini coefficient (2015): Source

Global Wealth & Income Inequality, 2021 - Source

“MENA” is the most unequal region in the world, Europe has the lowest inequality levels - Source

Contemporary global inequalities are close to early 20th century levels, at the peak of Western imperialism - Source

Before ending this section off, we hope that you've learnt something from this, and these graphs showcase the image well. We hope it answered the main question well, and don't forget to like and share this blogpost. See you in Section 2!

— RL