Which policy is NOT typically used to address economic inequality?

• A. Progressive taxation
• B. Welfare
• C. Education access
• D. Deregulation with no safety nets

Answer: (D)

Policies aimed at reducing economic inequality rely on redistribution and expanding opportunity. Progressive taxation raises tax rates on higher incomes to shrink after-tax income gaps. Welfare programs provide direct support to those with lower incomes, helping to lift people out of poverty and stabilize families. Expanding access to education increases people’s skills and chances to improve their economic position over time.

Deregulation with no safety nets, on the other hand, is not used to address inequality because it reduces government protections and support systems. Without safety nets, fewer people have protections if prices rise, jobs are lost, or wages stagnate, and there's less redistribution to help those who are struggling. While deregulation can boost business profits or growth in some cases, it tends to leave inequality unaddressed or even widened, since the gains often accrue to those who are already better off.