Income inequality is not simply a matter of economics and politics. It is also a matter of life and death. Recent studies have indicated that life expectancy for men at mid-life is much lower for poorer individuals than for richer individuals. The data are actually quite dramatic and show that where one lives is also an important determinant of life expectancy. The correlation between income and life expectancy is very strong, but can be mitigated with strong action to help low income individuals.
We should all be very careful when we read articles in newspapers and other media. We almost automatically assume that the articles and op-eds reflect the considered views of the authors. But, in many cases, the materials we read are in fact written by paid lobbyists who are deliberately trying to influence the political decision-making process. For example, lobbyists in favor of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement that is being pushed by the Obama Administration have written materials that have been directly quoted without attribution by politicians who have written in favor of the trade deal. Everyone has the right to argue for policies they support. They should, however, have the decency to use their own words and not those of a paid shill.
Something very unusual happened recently. Egypt handed over two islands in the Gulf of Aqaba to Saudi Arabia. The peaceful transfer of territory is incredibly rare in world politics, and many Egyptians are outraged that General Sisi made the gesture. Saudi Arabia has bankrolled the Egyptian economy since the overthrow of President Morsi who the Saudis regarded as a dangerous politician because of his relationship to the Muslim Brotherhood. The Egyptian economy, however, remains incredibly weak and the transfer of the islands is viewed as a gesture of appreciation. It was probably not the right move to make for many Egyptians since it surrenders something permanent for the transitory good will of another state.
World Politics News 
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