Sociologist Mike Savage and Mark Kenny discuss wealth disparity, taxation policies, and racial wealth gaps in the UK and Australia. They explore the impact of elite private school backgrounds on British politics and the challenges in creating a more even playing field. The podcast delves into societal discontent over wealth disparities, racialized wealth gaps, and the implications for social mobility and democracy.
Wealth inequality leads to political disengagement and challenges in implementing fair tax policies.
Racial wealth gap intersects with class disparities, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies.
Deep dives
Inequality and Social Issues in the UK and Australia
The podcast episode delves into the rising wealth inequality in both the UK and Australia, highlighting the deepening divide between different socioeconomic groups. It emphasizes how economic elites are gaining more influence in policy-making, potentially eroding democratic practices and social mobility. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by renters in the housing market and the need for policies that address wealth inequality for a more equitable society.
Racial Wealth Divide and Multiculturalism
The discussion explores the racial wealth gap and how it intersects with class and gender disparities. It emphasizes how wealth accumulation disproportionately benefits certain groups while disadvantaging others, particularly in access to resources and opportunities. Additionally, it acknowledges the multiculturalism visible in political parties like the Tories, showcasing diversity in leadership roles but also highlighting the need to address the wealth gap among different ethnic backgrounds.
Political Impact of Wealth Inequality
The podcast sheds light on the political implications of wealth inequality, detailing how economic elites exert influence behind the scenes and contribute to disengagement among ordinary citizens in the democratic process. It discusses efforts by individuals and groups to raise awareness about wealth inequality and advocate for fairer tax policies to address disparities. The conversation points out a shift in public sentiment towards tackling glaring economic inequalities.
Call for Addressing Social Injustices
The episode concludes with a call to address social injustices resulting from wealth disparities, focusing on issues like poverty, access to healthcare, and lack of social mobility. It highlights the need for courage in policy-making to address thorny issues and implement reforms that promote equity and inclusivity in society. The podcast encourages discussions around how to ensure a fair and just society for all members, regardless of their economic background.
Sociologist Mike Savage joins us to talk wealth, inequality and other issues in UK politics.
In the pursuit of a truly egalitarian society, what can we learn from the United Kingdom’s race and class wealth divides? Can politicians implement policies around wealth and taxation without being accused of attacking aspiration? And what impact does the uneven growth of wealth have on political engagement and democracy? On this episode of Democracy Sausage, inequality expert Professor Mike Savage joins Professor Mark Kenny to discuss the wealth divide and how to create a more even playing field.
Mike Savage is the Martin White Professor of Sociology at the London School of Economics, a post traditionally awarded to the most senior professor in the department, and a Fellow of the British Academy.
Mark Kenny is a Professor at the ANU Australian Studies Institute. He came to the University after a high-profile journalistic career including six years as chief political correspondent and national affairs editor for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Canberra Times.