Fighting Poverty Us & Europe: A World of Difference (the Rodolfo De Benedetti Lecture Series)

by Alberto Alesina

In this timely study of the different approaches of America and Europe to the problems of domestic inequality and poverty, the authors describe just how different the two continents are in the level of State engagement in the redistribution of income. They discuss various possible economic explanations for the difference, including different levels of pre-tax income, openness, and social mobility; they survey politico-historical differences such as the varying physical size of nations, their electoral and legal systems, and the character of their political parties, as well as their experiences of war; and they examine sociological explanations which include different attitudes to the poor and notions of social responsibility, as well as, most importantly, attitudes to race.

Genres: Economics, Politics, Nonfiction, Poverty, Public Policy, Political Science

262 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Vance Ginn · Rating 3 out of 5]

The authors provide an interesting account of comparing European countries with the US regarding income inequality and mobility based on redistribution policies, politics, abs perceptions. The data is outdated now but they provide an important point that institutions matter, as do perceptions which support those institutions. I’d like to see the book updated to reflect the fiscal and regulatory changes in America to see how these have changed the comparison between Europe and America. Check it out for yourself.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Clear arguments, plenty of supporting evidence, and an interesting thesis. The historical and political arguments are a bit hard to take seriously, since they are outside of the authors' economic backgrounds, but generally this book is easily readable and would be useful for research or if you're looking for an academic book about why the United States didn't develop a strong welfare state.

[John · Rating 2 out of 5]

a couple economists discover political science & forget to cite them. weak empirics. might be a useful starting place for an undergrad class.

[Brendan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly important book, may have to finish a few parts i skimmed eventually