What We Owe Each Other

What We Owe Each Other by Minouche Shafik is an insightful exploration into modern social contracts and the imperative need for their evolution to address the pressing challenges we face in the 21st century. This pioneering work delves into the fundamental question of what society owes its individuals and, conversely, what individuals owe to society. As our political, economic, and societal landscapes undergo rapid transformation, Shafik meticulously examines how an updated social contract is pivotal for achieving equitable and sustainable progress.

The book offers a powerful framework to rethink our mutual responsibilities, providing a hopeful blueprint for social, economic, and political renewal. From parenting and education to employment and retirement, Shafik argues that modern circumstances such as technological advancements, demographic changes, and environmental challenges necessitate a restructured societal agreement. She reasons that only a new model, which ensures mutual security and opportunity, can adequately meet the needs of contemporary life.

Longlisted for the 2021 FT / McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award and hailed as one of Prospect Magazine's Best Books of 2021, this work has garnered praise from various thought leaders and notable figures.

Michael J. Sandel describes it as "Excellent... Shafik points us toward... a hopeful framework for social, economic and political renewal."

Melinda Gates commends the book as "A powerful and persuasive moral argument... rigorous and specific enough to help readers think practically about the policies needed."

Ursula von der Leyen deems it "A necessary contribution at a turning-point in history... A must-read."

Additionally, Martin Wolf of the Financial Times praises it as "Intelligent and lucid."

What We Owe Each Other integrates global perspectives and evidence-based analysis, offering a compelling argument for a new social contract. Shafik's expert insight and engaging narrative serve as a critical call to action, encouraging readers to rethink societal structures to foster a more just and resilient world.