The Broken Ladder: How Inequality Affects the Way We Think, Live, and Die

Payne argues that inequality must be treated as a public health problem. What does he mean by this? Do you agree or disagree?

In Chapter 9 Payne describes a cognitive-behavioral exercise to help people live more comfortably in unequal environments. Perform this exercise yourself by writing down what is most meaningful to you. Compare your answer to others, and note whenever you find yourself making status comparisons. Did this exercise help, and is it a practical way of living with inequality?

Payne weaves in his personal history of growing up poor and escaping the poverty trap to become a professor. Does his personal history bias him or give him a richer understanding of the topic? How did these anecdotes shape your understanding of the book?

What do you think is the most important consequence of inequality discussed in the book? How can we reduce this effect?

Payne argues that inequality hurts the rich just as much as the poor, giving them a vested interest in tackling inequality. What evidence does he use to support this assertion, and do you agree with him?

Payne expresses optimism that, because inequality works through our environment, we can change our environment to shift the vicious cycle of inequality to a virtuous one. Do you share Payne’s optimism that inequality can and will be addressed? Why or why not?

Payne repeatedly mentions that people consistently underestimate the degree of inequality that exists in society. Why do you think this is, and what are the implications of this?

Payne argues that traditional economic theories, particularly those emphasizing rational decision-making, do not square with how our brains and bodies work in reality. Discuss the examples that he gives. What might be a more productive role for economics if Payne’s arguments are correct?