The Haves and the Have-Nots: A Brief and Idiosyncratic History of Global Inequality

Inequality is a surprisingly slippery issue. It involves not just straightforward comparisons of individuals, but also comparisons of price and consumption differences around the world - and over time. In The Haves and the Have-Nots, Branko Milanovic, the lead economist at the World Bank's research division, approaches the issue in a new and innovative way; through stories. Milanovic reveals just how rich Elizabeth Bennet's suitor Mr. Darcy really was; how wealthy ancient Romans compare to today's super-rich (for example, Nero vs. Paris Hilton); who the richest people are today; how we should think about Marxism in a modern world; and how location factors into wealth. This bold and entertaining book teaches us not only how to think about inequality, but also why it matters and - most importantly - what we can do about it.