Andrew Leigh — Inequality and Egalitarianism [Aus. Policy Series - LIVE]

In this book, Joshua Gans and Andrew Leigh debunk the claim that economic inequality is the inevitable consequence of innovation. They argue that by encouraging innovation in the right way, society can become both more entrepreneurial and more egalitarian. The authors outline policies to boost innovation, reduce barriers to entry for entrepreneurs, and ensure equal access to future opportunities. They emphasize the importance of developing 'insurance policies' for the future, such as strong education systems, fair college loan schemes, quality training, and strengthened workers’ rights. The goal is to shape a future more like the techno-utopia of Star Trek rather than the dark techno-dystopia of Terminator[1][3][5].

This book, written by W.K. Hancock, is a comprehensive survey of Australia divided into four chapters: 'Foundations,' 'Political Economy,' 'Politics,' and 'Civilisation.' It critically examines the origins of 'white Australia,' argues against Australian protectionism, analyzes Australian politics, and discusses Australian culture and intellectual life. The book is notable for its influence on historians and political scientists and continues to be relevant today for its insights into the Australian national character and economic policies[1][4][5].

In *Battlers and Billionaires*, Andrew Leigh explores the history of inequality in Australia, from egalitarian beginnings to the current rise in inequality. The book details how inequality increased through the nineteenth century, decreased from the 1920s to the 1970s, and is now returning to levels similar to those of the 1920s. Leigh argues that while inequality can fuel economic growth, it also poses significant dangers to society, including reduced social mobility and increased societal divisions. The book examines the drivers and consequences of inequality, public attitudes towards it, and proposes policy solutions to address these issues.

Originally published in 1926, 'The Sun Also Rises' is Ernest Hemingway’s first novel and a classic example of his spare but powerful writing style. The novel follows a group of young American and British expatriates as they wander through Europe in the mid-1920s, capturing the moods, feelings, and attitudes of the cynical and disillusioned Lost Generation. The story centers around Jake Barnes, a World War I veteran and journalist, and Lady Brett Ashley, as they journey from the wild nightlife of 1920s Paris to the brutal bullfighting rings of Spain. The novel portrays an age of moral bankruptcy, spiritual dissolution, unrealized love, and vanishing illusions, reflecting the existential disillusionment characteristic of the Lost Generation[2][3][4].

In 'The Tyranny of Merit', Michael J. Sandel argues that the current system of meritocracy has led to significant social and political issues. He contends that meritocracy stratifies society into winners and losers, based largely on economic status and educational credentials, resulting in hubris among the successful and resentment and humiliation among those who are not. Sandel suggests that this system ignores the role of luck and external factors in success and instead attributes success solely to individual talent and hard work. He advocates for a new way of thinking about success, one that is more attentive to the role of luck, more conducive to an ethic of humility and solidarity, and more affirming of the dignity of all work. The book also explores the impact of credentialism and the need to restore dignity to work that does not require a college degree, promoting a politics of the common good[1][3][5].