Includes bibliographical references and index.

Depending on whom you ask, the gap between rich and poor in the United States is widening. Is income inequality in America a cause for concern, or is it, as some experts assert, necessary for a functioning society? What is the government's responsibility in attaining a more equitable distribution of wealth? This well-balanced anthology tackles big questions like Is the American dream still attainable? and How should income inequality be addressed? with articles from a variety of viewpoints that will help readers understand how we got to this point, what can be done to change things, and potential effects on our future.