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How can we become a more equal society?
In June 2009, CAP in Sheffield organised a discussion meeting to look at ways of pursuing the policies advocated by Richard Wilkinson in 'The Spirit Level' as described in his talk at our 2009 AGM.
David Price gave a summary of Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett’s thesis: that the more unequal the society amongst the developed countries, the greater is a range of economic and social problems it experiences. Conversely, more equal countries have fewer of these problems and, crucially, a more equal society will benefit all – the richer as well as the poorer.
Those attending the meeting included those with secular political and professional interests as well as members of Sheffield Church Action on Poverty. There was general agreement that the findings could be a powerful argument in the fight against poverty and inequality. Amongst a list of topics for discussion, effective ways of getting the message across to the general public was considered a crucial and necessary pre-condition to influencing MPs.
The ideas generated included:
- Sending letters to media.
- Preparing briefing notes that can be used to pass the message on.
- Supporting other campaigns with similar aims.
- Entering in to partnerships with other groups.
- Designing statements/pledges for other groups to support.
- Designing a petition.
- Engaging with those suffering injustice.
- Publicising local issues.
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