EC103: The Economic History of Inequality

Is a growing gap between the ultra-rich, and the rest, necessary for economic growth? What are the historical precedents for our current global inequity?

The distribution of the gains from capitalism, globalisation and technological progress preoccupies academic and popular discourse. This course will introduce students to the study and history of these economic inequalities.

We will examine:

• How to conceptualise inequality
• How has inequality changed over time?
• What causes inequality to rise or fall?
• How has social mobility changed over time?
• What is the relationship between inequality and social mobility?
• How important is inheritance in determining wealth?
• Aspects of gender, and ethnic inequalities, over time

A detailed survey of the key evidence on inequality, both contemporary and historical, and the sources and methods used to measure it. Students will learn how to critically interrogate the quality of inferences from such evidence. They will explore the dimensions of inequality along historical, contemporary, spatial, ethnic and gender lines, drawing on research in economic history, economic geography and sociology. 

Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course.

Level: 100 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: 1,500-word essay (50%) and one final written examination (50%) 

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is suited for the motivated student who wishes to study interdisciplinary topics from scholars at the research frontier. Students who wish to learn how to combine quantitative methods with deep historical context will gain much.

The course will help students develop the ability to weave a complex, multi-faceted narrative, and to write clearly about economic history. This will facilitate those who wish to later embark upon careers where communication of complexity is a must.

• Understand the concepts behind the interpretation of inequality
• Be able to compare inequality over time and contextualise contemporary inequality within a broader economic history perspective
• Analyse institutional, demographic and social determinants of inequality
• Apply methods and concepts from the research frontier to the understanding of historical and contemporary outcomes

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.