Inequality is driving us over a cliff

Abstract

This short chapter is a short introduction to the vast literature on inequality, seeking to tie it with the concept of 'environmental brinkmanship'-that is, that the elevated economic, political and agenda-setting position of a tiny minority of our species is so 'stratospheric' that they are willing to risk the entire human enterprise. The chapter argues that this recklessness is primarily made possible by the collective judgement of 'Davos people' that they can insulate themselves from what is coming-if our 'business as usual' trajectory persists for much longer. Enlightened global leadership is desperately needed, not only to consider ecological limits, but also to implement a massive redistribution of wealth and power. This challenge is daunting, but if it is not recognized and responded to, then a 'breakdown world', characterized by 'barbarianization', may have the same result, within this century. Show more