today we’re looking at a concept that’s as provocative as it is controversial — a theory that asks: Does inequality get worse before it gets better?
It’s called the Kuznets Curve, and it’s been central to debates about growth, fairness, and whether rising prosperity naturally leads to a more equal society.
Let’s get smarter.
What Is the Kuznets Curve?
The Kuznets Curve is a graphical hypothesis that suggests there’s a predictable relationship between a country’s level of economic development and its level of income inequality.
The shape of the curve is an inverted U:
At the early stages of development, inequality rises.
At later stages, inequality falls.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.