The hottest Redistribution Substack posts right now

Measuring how much wealth is redistributed in society is complicated because people's incomes can change a lot over their lifetime. A person might be considered poor at one point and rich at another, which makes it hard to classify them in studies.
Figuring out who actually pays taxes can be tricky. For example, corporate taxes affect not just shareholders but also employees and customers, so it’s hard to pin down who truly bears the burden of these taxes.
The increase in income inequality might come from factors outside of government policies. Things like changes in job value over time or how people marry within their social class can affect overall wealth distribution.

The debate around means-testing Social Security highlights a key argument: programs only for the poor tend to be less effective.
This idea, known as the 'paradox of redistribution', suggests that means-tested programs often struggle to provide the necessary benefits.
Research on this topic shows mixed results, indicating that while there are issues with means-tested programs, they still play a significant role in government spending.

Welfare states are not charity; they can lead to poverty traps
To create prosperity, we need pillars like property rights, scientific rationalism, modern capital markets, and effective communication systems
Redistribution of wealth to alleviate poverty can actually increase absolute poverty, impacting economic growth and overall wealth

Japan can achieve faster per capita GDP growth by addressing inequality from 1990-2010.
To promote both equality and growth, Japan should implement measures that are mutually reinforcing.
Specific measures to pursue for growth and redistribution in Japan are discussed in the article.

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