This chapter discusses the chronic problems of inequality in the United States, which is growing and dividing people by class, region, and race. It emphasizes the thin social welfare state and the growing divide between the business and professional class at the top and the falling middle and working class.
George Packer is journalist and author whose words, during 15 years as staff writer for the New Yorker and latterly at the Atlantic, have helped frame American public life. His latest book is Last Best Hope: America In Crisis and Renewal, which is now finding its way to shelves as a paperback, and reflects on the polarised nature of US politics and what could be done to bring the two sides closer to consensus. Hosting the discussion is Justin Webb from BBC Radio 4's The Today Programme.
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