The Great Escape: Health, Wealth, and the Origins of Inequality

By Angus Deaton

A New Understanding of Economic Development

In his groundbreaking book, The Great Escape, Angus Deaton argues that economic development is not simply a matter of increasing incomes. Rather, it is a complex process that involves improvements in health, education, and nutrition. Deaton shows that these improvements are essential for sustained economic growth and that they can help to reduce inequality.

The Importance of Health

Deaton begins by arguing that health is the foundation of economic development. He shows that healthy people are more productive workers and that they are less likely to miss work due to illness. As a result, countries with healthier populations tend to have higher incomes.

Deaton also shows that health is essential for reducing inequality. He argues that the poor are more likely to suffer from ill health and that this can trap them in a cycle of poverty. By contrast, the rich have better access to healthcare and are able to invest more in their health. This can lead to a widening gap between the rich and the poor.

The Role of Education

Education is another key factor in economic development. Deaton shows that education can help to improve health, productivity, and income. He also argues that education can help to reduce inequality by giving the poor the skills they need to compete in the job market.

The Importance of Nutrition

Nutrition is also essential for economic development. Deaton shows that malnutrition can lead to a number of health problems, including stunting, cognitive impairment, and reduced productivity. As a result, countries with high levels of malnutrition tend to have lower incomes.

Deaton also argues that nutrition is important for reducing inequality. He shows that the poor are more likely to suffer from malnutrition and that this can trap them in a cycle of poverty. By contrast, the rich have better access to food and are able to invest more in their nutrition. This can lead to a widening gap between the rich and the poor.

The Great Escape

Deaton concludes by arguing that the great escape from poverty is possible for all countries. He shows that by investing in health, education, and nutrition, countries can improve their economic prospects and reduce inequality.

The Great Escape is a must-read for anyone interested in economic development. It is a powerful and persuasive argument that health, education, and nutrition are essential for sustained economic growth and reducing inequality.

Why You Should Buy This Book

The Great Escape is a book that will change the way you think about economic development. It is a powerful and persuasive argument that health, education, and nutrition are essential for sustained economic growth and reducing inequality. If you are interested in making a difference in the world, this is a book that you must read.

Here are a few reasons why you should buy The Great Escape:

• It is a well-written and engaging book that is accessible to a wide range of readers.
• It is based on solid research and evidence.
• It offers a new and innovative perspective on economic development.
• It is a book that will inspire you to make a difference in the world.

Don't miss out on this important book. Order your copy of The Great Escape today!