Book contents
- Power and Inequality
- Studies in New Economic Thinking
- Power and Inequality
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Acknowledgements
- 1 Introduction
- Part I The Colours of Power
- Part II Ethical Assessments and Policy Perspectives
- 9 The Ethics of Power between the Common Good and Equality
- 10 The Strategy of Structural Reforms
- 11 Materials for a Reasonable Utopia
- References
- Index
10 - The Strategy of Structural Reforms
from Part II - Ethical Assessments and Policy Perspectives
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 January 2024
- Power and Inequality
- Studies in New Economic Thinking
- Power and Inequality
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Acknowledgements
- 1 Introduction
- Part I The Colours of Power
- Part II Ethical Assessments and Policy Perspectives
- 9 The Ethics of Power between the Common Good and Equality
- 10 The Strategy of Structural Reforms
- 11 Materials for a Reasonable Utopia
- References
- Index
Summary
A distinction between left and right policies is proposed, based on the opposition between the aim of a reduction of power inequalities in society and their acceptance as unavoidable if not useful. The objective of absolute equality is criticized. The complex nature of the notion of equality is illustrated recalling Sens notion of capabilities. Progress, interpreted as a reduction in power inequalities within society, is possible, but not a necessary historical outcome. It requires active policies, organized in a strategy of structural reform.
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- Power and InequalityA Reformist Perspective, pp. 237 - 255Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2024