Linsey McGoey, a sociology professor known for her insightful books on economic disparities, argues against the existence of billionaires, stressing their role in exacerbating inequality. Ryan Bourne, an economics expert from the Cato Institute, defends billionaires, highlighting their potential for innovation and philanthropy. They debate the societal impact of wealth concentration, the complexities of wealth taxation, and the influence of billionaire philanthropy on democracy and global health. The discussion culminates in a live audience vote revealing differing views on abolishing billionaires.
As billionaires jet off to space should we abolish them here on earth? In this week's debate professor Linsey McGoey of Essex University and Ryan Bourne of the Cato Institute go head to head on whether society should tolerate the existence of billionaires. The debate was chaired by Economics editor at BBC Newsnight Ben Chu.
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Linsey McGoey - The Unknowers: https://www.primrosehillbooks.com/product/the-unknowers-how-strategic-ignorance-rules-the-world-linsey-mcgoey/
Ryan Bourne - Economics in Once Virus: https://www.primrosehillbooks.com/product/economics-in-one-virus-ryan-a-bourne/