“This text provides a comprehensive understanding of the economics—the “why’s” and “how’s”—of inequality, discrimination, poverty and mobility.” (*) Thoroughly classroom tested, this introductory-level text surveys what economists have to say about inequality (or income and wealth distribution), poverty, mobility—both intragenerational (within careers), and intergenerational (between generations)--and discrimination (on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, gender, and many other factors) in the United States. This text brings the undergraduate treatment of these issues up-to-date, featuring detailed, non-mathematical examination of the economic theory underlying the analysis. There is a greater emphasis on mobility, on wealth accumulation, distribution and inheritance, and on discrimination law than in other texts. The author provides full and fair treatment of competing sides in several of the controversial issues in the field, written in such a way that instructors can use the text material to motivate a variety of classroom discussions. Endorsements:

“The U.S. has experienced monumental changes in inequality, discrimination, poverty and mobility over the past decades. This text offers an objective, insightful examination of changes and trends, covering a whole host of views and possible explanations. There is no doubt these issues will remain hot topics for years to come, and this text provides a comprehensive understanding of the economics—the “why’s” and “how’s”—of inequality, discrimination, poverty and mobility.” — Rachel Greszler, Congressional Staff Economist (*)