Economic inequality is one of the most divisive issues of our time. Yet few
would argue that inequality is a greater evil than poverty. The poor suffer
because they don't have enough, not because others have more, and some have
far too much. So why do many people appear to be more distressed by the
rich than by the poor? In this provocative book, the #1 New York Times
bestselling author of On Bullshit presents a compelling and unsettling
response to those who believe that the goal of social justice should be
economic equality or less inequality. Harry Frankfurt, one of the most
influential moral philosophers in the world, argues that we are morally
obligated to eliminate poverty—not achieve equality or reduce inequality.
Our focus should be on making sure everyone has a sufficient amount to live
a decent life. To focus instead on inequality is distracting and
alienating. At the same time, Frankfurt argues that the conjunction of vast
wealth and poverty is offensive. If we dedicate ourselves to making sure
everyone has enough, we may reduce inequality as a side effect. But it’s
essential to see that the ultimate goal of justice is to end poverty, not
inequality. A serious challenge to cherished beliefs on both the political
left and right, On Inequality promises to have a profound impact on one of
the great debates of our time.