World leaders have come to recognise the challenge posed by high and rising economic inequality. This paper asks how Europe can address excessive inequality. It argues that we should learn from the lessons of history; there have been significant periods in the past when inequality fell. We can...

This paper summarizes the highlights and implications of the forthcoming OECD project report entitled 'Income Distribution in OECD Countries: The Evidence from the Luxembourg Income Study.'

This paper summarizes the recent literature on income distribution in European nations drawing on some of the material used in the OECD project report (see above) and additional new material.

This paper assembles and reviews empirical evidence about the personal distribution of income in Europe and makes a comparison with the United States. From his analysis, the author concludes, among other things, that: the United States has higher income inequality than Europe; within Western...

Der britische Finanzminister rechtfertigte die jüngste Senkung des Einkommensteuer- Spitzensatzes in Großbritannien mit optimalsteuertheoretischen Argumenten. Dieser Beitrag legt die zugrunde liegende Argumentation dar, die auf den Analysen im Mirrlees Review zum britischen Steuersystem...

This chapter addresses the important issue of the quality of time series data on income distribution. We hope to suggest both standards and practice patterns that will improve the production and use of time series data on inequality. Thus, we address three groups: primary data producers;...

In seeking to understand inequality today, a great deal can be learned from history. However, there are few countries for which the long-run development of income inequality has been charted. Many countries have records of incomes, taxes and social support. This paper presents a new methodology...

First paragraph: Professor Atkinson, does the topic of inequality get more attention today?

In analysing proposals for new sources of development funding, there are several issues that arise across the board. What is the role of new sources in relation to existing overseas development assistance? Should we be seeking new sources that generate a double dividend? Can the key elements of...