In *Capital in the Twenty-First Century*, Thomas Piketty offers a fresh perspective on an issue that has garnered increasing attention in recent decades: inequality. Through an analysis of a vast array of data, the French economist identified a distinct pattern. All else being equal, rapid economic growth diminishes the role of capital and its concentration in private hands, thereby reducing inequality; conversely, a slowdown in growth leads to an increased reliance on capital and a rise in inequality. Looking back through history—Piketty’s study spans a vast period, from the early 18th century to the present day—the growing influence of capital was interrupted only during the 20th century, as a result of two world wars and the Keynesian policies of the "Glorious Thirty" (1945–1975).

Today, the world is returning to a state of steadily rising inequality, a trend that could lead to severe social and political consequences. However, unlike Karl Marx—with whom he is frequently compared—Piketty does not merely offer a grim assessment of the current situation, nor does he predict the collapse of the capitalist system. Instead, he proposes measures that could help halt these adverse trends.