“Commonology” is the underpinning of Commonality. It is the idea that there are great implications for living in common with others, such as living longer and healthier lives. A large body of research also highlights the adverse effects of inequality.

The Problem
Richard Wilkinson asserts that the more discrepancy between incomes of the rich and the poor, the more degenerative disease, homicide, domestic violence, discrimination, and the less community volunteering, trust, etc… and the list goes on. Wilkinson suggests that it may be wrong to assume that societal improvements in income or education will lead to a healthier and more equal society. Assisting more people to become educated and earn more income will continue the process by which some are left behind. So what is the solution?

Toward a Better Way
A new model for addressing inequality is necessary for sustainable change. Instead of only redistributing products, it would be best to change mentalities. As long as value is ascribed to “getting ahead,” inequality will remain. Wilkinson (1999) submits that in more egalitarian societies, having less difference in status and income, the standards of health are higher, not to mention better social aspects of trust, support, volunteering, etc… Therefore, it is recommended that a greater goal is sought, not a transient remedy for select individuals, but a long-term effort to decrease the total burden of disadvantage within the community. In addition to Wilkinson’s conclusions, it is suggested that research and education focus on shifting values of self-prosperity and independence to modesty and interdependence. Modesty should preclude creating superiority through excessive income or possessions and interdependence should embrace commonality and giving as the new status symbol.

For more info, check out Richard Wilkinson’s Impact of Inequality, or other works such as Micheal Marmot’s The Status Syndrome, and Steven McNamee and Robert Miller’s The Myth of Meritocracy.