Social Work Grand Challenges: Reversing Extreme Economic Inequality

Today’s US economy generates more wealth than at any other time in history, yet divisions and disparities are increasing, with concentrated flows of income to the top and capital accumulation only by those who are already wealthy. This inequality creates hardship for households, a suboptimal economy, and social instability. Market forces and misguided public policies contribute to inequality, and more positive policies can be designed and implemented. In this Social Work Grand Challenge, we present promising and achievable policies to shore up the income of the poor, build middle-class stability and wealth, and reverse the mechanisms that concentrate wealth solely among the wealthy.

This oral session will include a brief overview of the problem and a speaker panel focusing on specific policy changes to create greater income and wealth equity.  Topics will include work hour and compensation for low-wage workers, social insurance coverage, asset-building for the poor and middle class, and the role of wealth and higher education.  Speakers will pose questions for a moderated discussion between the audience and the speaker panel.