Analysing new dimensions of inequality

In today’s economy, the changing nature of work and labour markets have made it difficult for some people to find jobs — often because their skills do not match the work available.

The question is, what can be done to help them?

At INSEAD, a forthcoming research project led by Professor Mark Stabile aims to find answers. The multi-phased project is receiving support from two generous alumni, Raman Berent MBA’90D and Idgar Van Kippersluis MBA’99D.

The first phase of the project will evaluate Universal Basic Income as a potential solution for helping people in need. It will explore when, where and whether this solution is most effective, particularly in contrast to other policy options. The research team will also consider the myriad ways that changing labour markets impact different people facing different challenges.

The research complements ongoing efforts by the James M. and Cathleen D. Stone Centre to increase MBA students’ exposure to issues of poverty and inequality. At INSEAD, students engage in these topics through core courses, elective courses and focused project work. To enhance these curricular offerings, the INSEAD Stone Centre continues to receive generous support from James and Cathleen Stone. “Our students are getting exposed to these issues in ways they never were before,” notes Stabile.

“Often, when you have a problem like inequality — with
many different dimensions — a single solution is not
the answer...It is a complicated issue, which is why it
makes sense to think about what actually works best in
different scenarios.”