BRAZIL AND THE PERSISTENCE OF INEQUALITY

a multidimensional analysis

Abstract

The article explores the deep social inequality in Brazil, extending beyond income analysis to address multiple dimensions such as education, health, labor market, and access to public services. It emphasizes that Brazil consistently ranks among the most unequal countries globally, with extreme income concentration among the top 1%. Inequality is not limited to income but permeates various life aspects, including unequal access to education and health, perpetuating social exclusion. Informal labor, predominantly among the less skilled, and racial and gender disparities are highlighted as reinforcing elements of this inequality. Additionally, the article criticizes public policies that often merely mitigate the superficial effects of inequality rather than addressing structural inequalities. The discussion extends to include the inequality of opportunities and the unfair tax system, which favors the rich while marginalizing the poor. The article concludes that for more equitable development, it is necessary to move beyond economic growth and focus on expanding individual freedoms and capabilities, as proposed by theorists like Amartya Sen and John Rawls.