In her new book, The Good Society, Kate Pickett returns to the theme of inequality, a topic she famously explored in The Spirit Level back in 2009. That earlier work, co-authored with Richard Wilkinson, posited that inequality is the fundamental cause of numerous social problems, from obesity to violent crime, arguing that more equal societies enjoy better outcomes overall. While it faced criticism for overstating its case and selective use of evidence, it resonated widely and has influenced mainstream discourse on social issues.
Revisiting Inequality in the UK Context
Pickett's latest publication once again positions inequality as a root cause of social evils, suggesting that a country's level of inequality can predict metrics like infant mortality rates, mental illness prevalence, and homicide levels. She contrasts this with GDP growth, which she views as a poor measure of overall welfare. In the opening chapter, she highlights how the UK has deteriorated since 2010, citing increased child poverty, stagnating life expectancy, and rising prison populations.
A Puzzling Disconnect: Inequality vs. Economic Performance
However, an intriguing contradiction emerges when examining the data. On Pickett's preferred measure, the Palma ratio, inequality in the UK peaked in 2008 and has since declined, largely due to a more progressive tax system. Meanwhile, GDP growth has slowed significantly compared to previous decades. This presents a conundrum: if offered in 2010, would Pickett have accepted slower GDP growth in exchange for reduced inequality? Presumably, yes, but the outcomes have left many, including Pickett, dissatisfied, raising questions about the trade-offs involved.
A Whistle-Stop Tour of Progressive Policies
Rather than delving deeply into this puzzle, The Good Society takes a broader approach, covering a range of policy areas such as health, education, criminal justice, and social care. Pickett diagnoses failures in the current UK model and proposes alternatives, often inspired by successful social democracies in northern Europe, like Finnish schools and Norwegian prisons. For readers already sympathetic to progressive ideals—such as reducing prison populations or valuing care work more highly—this tour may reinforce existing beliefs. Yet, for skeptics or experts in these fields, the book's lack of detailed analysis and oversimplifications might limit its persuasiveness.
Universal Basic Income: A Detailed Proposal
One of the more compelling sections focuses on Universal Basic Income (UBI), where Pickett has collaborated with economist Howard Reed to develop costed blueprints for a UK implementation. She argues that UBI could address inequality and injustice, though critics note she overstates its potential. For instance, it's inaccurate to claim UBI would eliminate means-testing entirely, as benefits for incapacity and housing would still be necessary. Additionally, small-scale studies have yet to confirm the transformative benefits she envisions, making this a contentious but substantive proposal.
Political Realities and Evidence-Based Policymaking
In her conclusion, Pickett addresses political obstacles by advocating for greater use of evidence in policymaking and the implementation of citizens' juries. While well-intentioned, this approach may seem out of touch in today's political climate, where partisan divides often hinder such initiatives. Her hopeful assertion that a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable society is within reach may inspire some, but for others, it leaves lingering doubts about feasibility.
The Good Society: And How We Make It is published by Bodley Head, offering a thought-provoking yet divisive exploration of social policy and inequality in modern Britain.
