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The level and distribution of income and wealth

In: Handbook on the Social Determinants of Health

Author

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  • Gerry McCartney

Abstract

The income and wealth of individuals and nations, and their distribution across populations, are important determinants of health. There are different theories of how long-run increases in national income impacts on population health, but the benefits of continued growth diminish at higher income levels. The distribution of income and wealth across populations is a function of the power and class relationships within societies. Across many high-income countries, income inequalities reduced between the 1920s and 1970s as welfare states were built and organized labour exercised substantial power, but increased in many countries, including the USA, UK and New Zealand, thereafter. Inequalities in health have tracked these trends in income, power and wealth inequalities over time. Reducing income and wealth inequalities is important if population health is to improve in the future. In high-income countries, the benefits of further economic growth are less clear given the risks of existential ecological damage.

Suggested Citation

  • Gerry McCartney, 2025. "The level and distribution of income and wealth," Chapters, in: Toba Bryant (ed.), Handbook on the Social Determinants of Health, chapter 6, pages 66-81, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:21989_6
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    File URL: https://www.elgaronline.com/doi/10.4337/9781035302093.00013
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