Income inequality is at an all-time high between the haves and the have nots. But does the poverty gap have to be so wide, and can it potentially be eliminated altogether? Five TED speakers share some big ideas about inequality, and new ways we might achieve prosperity for all.
When many aid workers hear about a problem, they get to work. But Ernesto Sirolli says that's naive and counterproductive. He argues that the first step is to listen to the people you're trying to help, and to tap into their entrepreneurial spirit.
Author and politician Chrystia Freeland says economic inequality is growing by leaps and bounds. She charts the rise of today's billionaire plutocrats, and wonders what concentrated super-wealth means for the rest of us.
Historian Niall Ferguson explains why -- when it comes to amassing wealth -- it's been the West versus the rest for the past 500 years. He suggests six killer apps that promote wealth, stability and innovation, and he says, these apps are now share-able.
Ghanaian economist George Ayittey lashes out against corrupt African leaders. He calls on a young, fast "cheetah generation" to take back the continent from complacent bureaucrats he calls hippos.
Novogratz, CEO of Acumen Fund, shares stories of how "patient capitalism" can bring sustainable jobs, goods, services and dignity to the world's poor.
