The growth of income and wealth inequality has enormous economic and political consequences, both in the United States and around the world. The subject is likely to be a major issue in this year’s congressional elections and the 2016 presidential campaign.

The debate will be informed by Paris School of Economics Professor Thomas Piketty’s new book, Capital in the Twenty-First Century. Piketty, drawing on two centuries of data in 20 countries, concludes that extreme and potentially destabilizing increases in inequality may be in our future absent changes in public policy.

Piketty will provide a brief synopsis of his book. Dean Baker of the Center for Economic and Policy Research and Kevin Hassett of the American Enterprise Institute will provide commentary. Tax Policy Center Director Len Burman will moderate the discussion, focusing on the role tax policy might play in mitigating income inequality, and field questions from the audience. 

Following the discussion, Piketty will sign copies of his book, which will be available for sale.

Resources

• Speaker Biographies
• Dean Baker - Handout
• Thomas Piketty - PDF Presentation
• Kevin Hassett - PDF Presentation

*A light lunch will be provided at 11:30 a.m. The forum will begin promptly at noon.