The Great Leveler by Walter Scheidel

Last updated: Sep 7, 2023

Summary of The Great Leveler by Walter Scheidel

The Great Leveler by Walter Scheidel is a comprehensive analysis of inequality throughout human history. The book argues that there are only four major forces that have historically led to significant reductions in inequality: mass mobilization warfare, transformative revolution, state collapse, and pandemics.

Scheidel begins by examining the origins of inequality, tracing it back to the advent of agriculture and the rise of complex societies. He argues that inequality is a natural outcome of human social organization, as some individuals and groups accumulate more resources and power than others.

The first major force that Scheidel identifies as a leveler is mass mobilization warfare. He demonstrates that throughout history, wars have often led to significant redistributions of wealth and power. This occurs through various mechanisms, such as the destruction of property, the redistribution of land, and the creation of new social and political structures.

The second force is transformative revolution, which Scheidel defines as a radical change in the political and economic system. He examines historical examples such as the French Revolution and the Russian Revolution, showing how these revolutions resulted in the overthrow of existing elites and the redistribution of wealth and power.

The third force is state collapse, which occurs when a centralized political authority disintegrates. Scheidel argues that state collapse often leads to a leveling effect, as power becomes decentralized and resources are redistributed among different groups. He provides examples from ancient Rome to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The final force is pandemics, which Scheidel argues can have a profound impact on inequality. He shows how pandemics such as the Black Death in the 14th century led to a significant reduction in population, resulting in labor shortages and increased bargaining power for workers. This, in turn, led to higher wages and a more equal distribution of wealth.

Scheidel concludes by acknowledging that these leveling forces are often accompanied by immense human suffering and destruction. However, he argues that they have historically been the most effective means of reducing inequality. He also cautions against the idea that technological progress or economic growth alone can solve the problem of inequality, as history has shown that these factors can often exacerbate existing inequalities.

In summary, The Great Leveler provides a comprehensive analysis of inequality throughout history, highlighting the four major forces that have historically led to significant reductions in inequality. Scheidel's argument is supported by extensive historical evidence and offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of inequality and its potential remedies.

1. Inequality is an inherent feature of human societies

The Great Leveler argues that throughout history, inequality has been a constant and inherent feature of human societies. Scheidel presents evidence from various civilizations and time periods to support this claim. He explains that inequality arises due to factors such as differences in talent, luck, and the accumulation of wealth and power. While some societies have managed to reduce inequality temporarily through various means, such as redistributive policies or revolutions, these efforts have always been short-lived.

This insight is important because it challenges the notion that inequality can be completely eradicated. It suggests that while efforts to reduce inequality are necessary and valuable, it is unlikely that a society can achieve perfect equality. Understanding this inherent nature of inequality can help shape more realistic and effective policies to address it.

2. The Four Horsemen of Leveling

Scheidel introduces the concept of the "Four Horsemen of Leveling" as the main drivers of reducing inequality throughout history. These four factors are mass mobilization warfare, transformative revolution, state collapse, and pandemics. According to Scheidel, these events have historically led to significant redistributions of wealth and power, leveling the playing field to some extent.

This insight is significant because it highlights the role of major disruptions in society in reducing inequality. It suggests that significant changes in power dynamics are often only possible through extreme events. While these events can be devastating, they have historically provided opportunities for marginalized groups to gain more equitable access to resources and opportunities.

3. The role of violence in reducing inequality

Scheidel argues that violence has played a crucial role in reducing inequality throughout history. He presents evidence that major redistributions of wealth and power have often been accompanied by violence, such as revolutions or wars. Scheidel suggests that violence is a powerful tool for challenging existing power structures and redistributing resources.

This insight is thought-provoking because it raises ethical questions about the means used to achieve greater equality. While violence may have been effective in some historical contexts, it is important to consider alternative, non-violent approaches to reducing inequality in modern societies. Understanding the historical role of violence can help inform discussions and strategies for achieving more equitable societies without resorting to violent means.

4. The impact of technological progress on inequality

Scheidel explores the relationship between technological progress and inequality. He argues that while technological advancements have the potential to improve living standards for all, they have historically led to increased inequality. Technological progress often benefits those who already have access to resources and power, exacerbating existing inequalities.

This insight is relevant in the context of our current technological advancements. It highlights the need for proactive policies and interventions to ensure that technological progress benefits all members of society, rather than further widening the gap between the rich and the poor. Understanding the historical patterns of technological progress and inequality can inform discussions on how to shape future technological advancements in a more equitable manner.

5. The importance of political and institutional factors

Scheidel emphasizes the role of political and institutional factors in shaping inequality. He argues that the presence of strong institutions and inclusive political systems can help mitigate inequality by providing opportunities for social mobility and ensuring fair distribution of resources. On the other hand, weak institutions and corrupt political systems tend to perpetuate and exacerbate inequality.

This insight highlights the importance of good governance and the rule of law in addressing inequality. It suggests that efforts to reduce inequality should not only focus on economic factors but also on strengthening institutions and promoting political reforms that ensure equal opportunities for all members of society.

6. The limitations of economic growth in reducing inequality

Scheidel challenges the notion that economic growth alone can effectively reduce inequality. He argues that while economic growth can create opportunities for wealth creation, it often benefits the already wealthy and exacerbates existing inequalities. Scheidel presents evidence that periods of economic growth have often been accompanied by increasing inequality.

This insight is significant because it calls for a more nuanced approach to addressing inequality. It suggests that policies focused solely on economic growth may not be sufficient to achieve more equitable societies. Instead, a combination of economic, social, and political interventions is needed to tackle the root causes of inequality.

7. The importance of social and cultural factors

Scheidel acknowledges the role of social and cultural factors in shaping inequality. He argues that societal norms, values, and beliefs can either perpetuate or challenge existing inequalities. For example, societies that prioritize meritocracy and equal opportunities are more likely to have lower levels of inequality.

This insight highlights the need for cultural and social change to address inequality. It suggests that efforts to reduce inequality should not only focus on economic and political factors but also on promoting values and norms that prioritize fairness and equal opportunities for all members of society.

8. The cyclical nature of inequality

Scheidel presents evidence that inequality tends to follow a cyclical pattern throughout history. He argues that periods of reduced inequality are often followed by periods of increasing inequality, and vice versa. This cyclical nature of inequality suggests that efforts to reduce inequality should be ongoing and adaptive.

This insight emphasizes the need for sustained and long-term commitment to addressing inequality. It suggests that policies and interventions should not be seen as temporary fixes but as part of an ongoing process of creating more equitable societies. Understanding the cyclical nature of inequality can help inform strategies that are resilient and adaptable to changing social and economic conditions.