• The Open University

Challenging Wealth and Income Inequality

Explore the concerns about rising wealth and income inequality between different generations in developed countries.

Challenging Wealth and Income Inequality
  • Duration4 weeks
  • Weekly study3 hours
  • LearnFree
  • Extra BenefitsFrom $54Find out more
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Have baby boomers had it all? Can we create a fair deal for everyone? Find out

From religious leaders to heads of state, everyone is talking about economic inequality. But what form does this take in different countries? What impact does it have on society? And why does it matter to you?

This online course will explore these growing concerns about wealth and income inequality.

You’ll scrutinise claims that the baby boomer generation has had it all, while social and political changes have left younger generations struggling.

You’ll examine the causes and implications of growing economic inequalities and what individuals, communities and governments can do about them.

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What topics will you cover?

  • What is meant by ‘inequality’ and how it is measured.
  • Comparisons of inequality across countries, different groups of people and generations.
  • Why inequality matters.
  • Controversies around inequality.
  • The causes, consequences, nature and impact of inequality, particularly with regard to housing and pensions.
  • The implications of inequality for individual financial planning for home ownership and retirement saving.
  • Potential actions that individuals, communities and wider society can take to reduce inequality.

When would you like to start?

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What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

  • Apply and make use of evidence to discuss the nature and existence of economic inequality.
  • Explain the impact that government policies may have on inequality.
  • Discuss the interplay between individuals, communities and the state in addressing inequalities.
  • Demonstrate and understand some of the implications of inequality for individuals, society and the wider economy.
  • Apply some personal financial planning techniques, particularly with regard to pensions and housing.

Who is the course for?

The course does not assume any prior knowledge of economics and can be enjoyed by anyone interested in social issues.

Who will you learn with?

Jerome De Henau

Jerome De Henau

Senior Lecturer in Economics at the Open University, working on impacts of public policy across various welfare regimes on gender and social inequalities and personal finance within households

Jonquil Lowe

Jonquil Lowe

Senior Lecturer in Economics and Personal Finance, The Open University. Also a freelance personal finance researcher, working with many UK consumer-facing organisations and author of over 25 books.

Who developed the course?

The Open University

The Open University (OU) is the largest academic institution in the UK and a world leader in flexible distance learning, with a mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas.

  • Established1969
  • LocationMilton Keynes, UK
  • World rankingTop 510Source: Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020

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