Thomas Piketty and the Economics of Inequality

The PPE Podcast

In this episode, we speak to Dr. Tom Palmer on the phenomenon of economic inequality, and whether that is worth a policy response. Particularly, we deal with the arguments made by the French economist Thomas Piketty and his proposal for the wealth tax. Dr Palmer astutely points out the theoretical gaps in Piketty's analysis, and shows that such interventionist policies may indeed do more harm than good.

Those interested in a deeper analysis of Thomas Piketty and his policy proposals may find this article useful. For a full-length critique of Thomas Piketty's theoretical apparatus and empirical findings, see here.

Dr Tom Palmer is the George M. Yeager Chair for Advancing Liberty and Executive Vice President for International Programs at the Atlas Network and is responsible for establishing operating programs in 14 languages and managing programs for a worldwide network of think tanks. He is also a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and director of Cato University.