Which of the following best explains why wealth inequality can be more pervasive than income inequality?

• A. Income inequality is always greater than wealth inequality because income is taxed at higher rates.
• B. Wealth is distributed equally due to government redistribution policies, making it less pervasive than income inequality.
• C. Income inequality directly determines wealth inequality, so they are always equal.
• D. Wealth accumulates over generations and includes assets such as property and investments, while income is earned and spent within shorter time frames.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between income and wealth: Income refers to the flow of money received over a period (such as wages or salaries), while wealth refers to the stock of assets owned at a point in time (such as property, investments, and savings).
2. Recognize that income is typically earned and spent within shorter time frames, such as monthly or yearly, whereas wealth accumulates over longer periods, often across generations.
3. Consider how wealth accumulation allows individuals or families to build assets that can generate additional income or be passed down, leading to compounding effects on inequality.
4. Analyze why government policies and taxation might affect income and wealth differently, noting that wealth is often less taxed or taxed differently than income, which can contribute to persistent wealth inequality.
5. Conclude that because wealth includes accumulated assets over time and can be inherited, wealth inequality tends to be more pervasive and persistent than income inequality, which is more transient and subject to immediate earning and spending.