Harvard economist Richard B. Freeman argues that it is now time to stop analyzing the causes and consequences of inequality and concentrate on doing something about it. He also offers real solutions: Raise the income of the working class, reinvest in cities, and reenergize democratic institutions through the encouragement of local citizen organizations.

Responding essays by distinguished scholars and activists - James Tobin, Heidi Hartmann, Michael Piore, Frances Fox Piven, James Heckman, Ernesto Cortes, Jr., and Paul R. Krugman - heed and add depth to Freeman's call.