New York Times columnist and economist Paul Krugman joined Bill last week to talk about inequality in America and a new book that’s the talk of academia and the media, Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty. See interview highlights below.
On Gordon Gekko’s Daughter
In this clip, Krugman tells Bill that America is on the road to becoming a society controlled not by self-made men or women, but by their offspring.
On America Becoming an Oligarchy
Krugman says we will look back nostalgically on the early 21st century “when the wealthy actually earned their wealth. By the year 2030, it’ll all be inherited,” unless something changes.
On a Global “Wealth” Tax
Krugman’s says Piketty’s suggestion for a global tax on wealth is feasible, if the United States can find the political will.
On Living in Ugly Times
In this clip, Krugman says that our debates on income inequality, and how to combat it, have gotten downright ugly. “We’ve had a parade of billionaires whining about the incredible injustice that people are actually criticizing them. And then comparing anyone who criticizes them to the Nazis.”
Bill Moyers on America’s Mad Dash Toward Oligarchy
Bill reflects on the forces that are causing inequality to skyrocket, why it matters and where we’re headed in the future.
Watch Bill’s full interview with Krugman »
