In this module you were introduced to the work of Thomas Picketty and his analysis of inequality in capitalist societies.For this module's writing assignment, please answer each of the following questions.

(1) How does Picketty explain the history wealth inequality in the United States?To answer this question you will need to say what Picketty means by "r" and "g" and describe the role that the relationship between r and g plays in Picketty's account.

(2) One of Picketty's main concerns is that increased inequality of wealth will mean that inherited wealth plays an increasingly large role in determining the lifetime opportunities of members of a political society.Is Picketty right to be concerned with this?Should (democratic) political societies try to curtail inheritance (and other gifts) so as to promote more equal life chances?Or should (democratic) political societies respect the property rights of persons and the freedom of those who own wealth to pass it on to whomever they wish?What is your view about this controversial issue and how would you justify it?