Educational Media Reviews Online

The Price of Fairness is a thought-provoking feature length documentary that highlights the multifaceted issue of inequality, exploring its various dimensions and ramifications. Filmmaker Alex Gabbay (Beyond Men and Masculinity, The Just Trial and Error) presents an examination of wealth and income inequality, touching upon the factors contributing to its existence, societal perceptions of fairness, and the implications for individuals and global communities worldwide.

The documentary begins by dissecting the roots of wealth and income inequality, acknowledging the influence of education, family background, and sheer luck in the form of privilege. Through compelling narratives and expert analysis, the film illustrates how these factors intertwine to perpetuate disparities in economic opportunities and outcomes.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the documentary is its exploration of the innate human sense of fairness displayed from early childhood and seen in other species such as monkeys. This inquiry into the origins of our responses to fairness raises compelling questions about the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping social attitudes and behaviors.

A highlight of the documentary is its investigation into the role of big business and tax evasion in exacerbating inequality. By exposing the mechanisms through which the ultra-wealthy exploit tax loopholes and manipulate economic systems, the film sheds light on the systemic injustices perpetuated by certain segments of society. The segment on tax evasion and its consequences is both enlightening and enraging, prompting viewers to reflect on the ethical implications of such practices.

However, the documentary falls short in fully exploring the social factors within communities that contribute to disparate outcomes. While it briefly touches upon the significance of stable family structures and home environments, it lacks depth in addressing other societal influences on economic and social mobility prevalent in every culture. A more comprehensive examination of these factors would have supplied a more nuanced understanding of inequality dynamics. The film can be engaging and informative, but at times, this reviewer struggled with the film keeping its focus on its central theme. The film's exploration of various aspects of inequality occasionally feels disjointed, leading to a somewhat unfocused narrative.

In conclusion, The Price of Fairness offers valuable insights into the complex issue of inequality, raising important questions about fairness, justice, and the role of economic and social systems in shaping our world. While the film may lack coherence at times, its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking analysis makes it a worthy addition to public and academic film collections. I recommend this film for those interested in the fields of economics, human rights, and politics.

Published and licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. Anyone can use these reviews, so long as they comply with the terms of the license.