´What Inequality does to us and why we need to reduce it’

As part of TU Dublin Green Week and the Impact-funded SDG Literacy project, Professor Richard Wilkinson gave an interesting, insightful, and awareness-raising talk to over 120 staff and students. The presentation titled ‘What Inequality does to us and why we need to reduce it’ focused on Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.

During the talk, Prof Wilkinson drew attention to the reality that societies with bigger income disparities between rich and poor have a higher prevalence of a wide range of health and social problems. Prof Wilkinson shared research findings that highlight the many negative social, psychological, environmental, and economic consequences of inequality. In essence, inequality and poverty get to the core of social life, affecting people’s relationships and ability to trust each other, having a negative impact on all people and the planet. Prof Wilkinson discussed research findings, indicating that happiness levels decrease, and mental health issues increase in societies with increasing levels of inequality. In addition, Prof Wilkinson discussed how inequality is having a negative impact on the environment; for example, how increased inequalities are linked with conspicuous consumption. Furthermore, Prof Wilkinson gave suggestions as to what he believes individuals, groups, and governments can do to reduce inequality. Finally, there was an engaging and participatory Q&A session facilitated by Georgina Lawlor, a lecturer on the Community Development and Youth Work programme.

Prof Wilkinson has published extensively on the areas of inequality and the social determinants of health and has co-founded The Equality Trust. You can find further information at the web link below:

https://www.equalitytrust.org.uk/