From Equality in STEM to Inequality in wealth distribution

Whilst the primary function of this blog is to focus on activities, articles or ideas to promote equality and diversity in STEM subjects, this post raises the question of wealth inequality and how this poses a challenge to achieveing equality within society more generally.

An OXFAM report published today reveals that the 8 richest people have a net worth equal to that of the poorest 50% of the world's population.  The World Economic Forum (WEF) also identified rising inequality in wealth and income the greatest risk to the global economy for 2017.  Furthermore, the disparity between the world's richest and poorest has become more pronounced from previous reports.  As the saying goes "the rich get richer whilst the poor get poorer".   Ironically, one of the potential impacts of the increasing disparity in wealth is increased support for more radical political parties resulting in further racial discrimination and increased inequalities.

The OXFAM report highlights that the current economic policies reinforce this trend and calls for major reforms of ecomonic and political systems.  Examples of good practices in this area can be seen in the WEF's Inclusive growth and development report, 2017  .    One of the key aims of such practices is not only to promote more even distribution of wealth between rich and poor, but also to ensure gender equality in it's distribution. As highlighted in The Global Gender Gap Report (WEF 2016), there is a strong bias against women with regards to wealth distribution.  This not only incorporates issues such as wage discrimination, an greater tendency for women to work in part-time or lower paid roles, but also differences associated with unpaid work, such as raising children or taking care of older relatives.  Some examples of good practice relating to reducing gender bias in wealth distribution are briefly explored in this article from the WEF Davos convention (which is being held this week).

Overcoming issues in wealth distribution isn't simply a matter of politics, it requires fundamental changes in society.  Personally, I believe that until everyone has access to quality education at all levels, regardless of country, race, gender or socioeconomic status, AND the necessary resources (food, shelter, support) to capitalise on that education, then there will always be inequalities in society.  Even with equal access to education, there are a myriad of other social factors that can influence the opportunities available to a person, whether that be in regard to wealth, employment, social interactions or probably any other indicator of health, wealth or status that you can think of.  OXFAM state that "it's time to build a human economy that benefits everyone, not just the privileged few", however, perhaps it is time to re-build human society rather than focus on the economy. Perhaps the focus on economy, wealth and material gain is actually part of the mindset that needs to change?