Income Inequality in Ireland: A Class Analysis – REBEL
Income Inequality in Ireland: A Class Analysis Rebel News
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Inequality in Modern Society: A Report on Income Inequality and the Need for System Change
The Global Issue of Income Inequality
Income inequality is a major global issue that is now recognized by almost all, including major global organizations like the IMF. In 2015, the IMF published a report stating that widening income inequality is the defining challenge of our time. Since then, income inequality has continued to grow, with the richest 10% of the global population currently taking 52% of global income.
Income Inequality in Britain
In Britain, income inequality has been growing since the 1970s. The levels of current income inequality are comparable to those in 1937. This growing inequality is a cause for concern and requires attention.
Income Inequality in Ireland
Ireland is no exception when it comes to income inequality. According to a report by The Nevin Economic Research Institute (NERI), Ireland has the highest 90/10 measure of income inequality among the 11 most affluent economies in the EU. This measure indicates how much more high-paid earners get over low-paid workers. Additionally, Ireland ranks 32 out of 34 among OECD members for income inequality before taxes and transfers.
The Battle Over Income Inequality
The elites in government and other defenders of Irish capitalism often downplay and dismiss the levels of inequality in the country. Some argue that inequality is natural or even beneficial for driving innovation and progress. However, these arguments miss the point that income inequality is deeply embedded in the capitalist system.
The Need for System Change
To address income inequality, it is necessary to challenge the underlying social structures of capitalism. While waiting for a revolution is not a practical solution, policies that decrease income inequality can be implemented by a government of the Left. Additionally, joining a union and organizing in workplaces can also help challenge income inequality. Countries with strong union membership and collective bargaining tend to have lower levels of inequality.
Conclusion
Income inequality is a significant issue that requires attention and action. It is not an inevitable fact of life but rather a result of the capitalist system. By focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and implementing policies that decrease income inequality, we can work towards a more equitable society.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
SDGs Addressed in the Article:
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
Specific Targets Identified:
- Target 1.4: By 2030, ensure that all men and women, in particular the poor and the vulnerable, have equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to basic services, ownership, and control over land and other forms of property, inheritance, natural resources, appropriate new technology, and financial services, including microfinance.
- Target 10.1: By 2030, progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average.
- Target 10.4: Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage, and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality.
Indicators Mentioned or Implied:
- Income inequality measures (e.g., income share of the top 10% and bottom 50% of the population)
- Gini Coefficient (a measure of income distribution)
- Comparison of income inequality between countries
- Union membership and collective bargaining coverage
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 1: No Poverty | Target 1.4: By 2030, ensure that all men and women, in particular the poor and the vulnerable, have equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to basic services, ownership, and control over land and other forms of property, inheritance, natural resources, appropriate new technology, and financial services, including microfinance. | – |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.1: By 2030, progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average. | Income inequality measures (e.g., income share of the top 10% and bottom 50% of the population) |
| Target 10.4: Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage, and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality. | Gini Coefficient (a measure of income distribution) | |
| – | Comparison of income inequality between countries Union membership and collective bargaining coverage |
Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. The article discusses income inequality as a major global issue and emphasizes the need to address the growing gap between the rich and poor.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the following specific targets can be identified:
– Target 1.4: Ensuring equal rights to economic resources and access to basic services for all men and women, particularly the poor and vulnerable.
– Target 10.1: Achieving and sustaining income growth for the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average.
– Target 10.4: Adopting policies, including fiscal, wage, and social protection policies, to achieve greater equality.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article mentions or implies several indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These include:
– Income inequality measures, such as the income share of the top 10% and bottom 50% of the population.
– Gini Coefficient, which is a measure of income distribution.
– Comparison of income inequality between countries.
– Union membership and collective bargaining coverage.
These indicators provide quantitative measures to assess progress in reducing income inequality and achieving greater equality.
4. Create a table with three columns titled ‘SDGs, Targets and Indicators” to present the findings from analyzing the article.
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 1: No Poverty | Target 1.4: By 2030, ensure that all men and women, in particular the poor and the vulnerable, have equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to basic services, ownership, and control over land and other forms of property, inheritance, natural resources, appropriate new technology, and financial services, including microfinance. | – |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.1: By 2030, progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average. | Income inequality measures (e.g., income share of the top 10% and bottom 50% of the population) |
| Target 10.4: Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage, and social protection policies, and progressively achieve greater equality. | Gini Coefficient (a measure of income distribution) | |
| – | Comparison of income inequality between countries Union membership and collective bargaining coverage |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: rebelnews.ie
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