43 pages • 1 hour read
The Broken Ladder: How Inequality Affects the Way We Think, Live, and Die
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
The book’s arguments are supported by personal anecdotes, academic and psychological studies, and thought experiments. Discuss the book’s structure and how these multiple elements contribute to its main arguments. Is this mix of evidence effective?
Payne argues that inequality must be treated as a public health problem. What does he mean by this? Do you agree or disagree?
In Chapter 9 Payne describes a cognitive-behavioral exercise to help people live more comfortably in unequal environments. Perform this exercise yourself by writing down what is most meaningful to you. Compare your answer to others, and note whenever you find yourself making status comparisons. Did this exercise help, and is it a practical way of living with inequality?
Unlock all 43 pages of this Study Guide
Get in-depth, chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis from our literary experts.
- Grasp challenging concepts with clear, comprehensive explanations
- Revisit key plot points and ideas without rereading the book
- Share impressive insights in classes and book clubs