The UK news has been dominated by riots, often violent, in towns around the country. Government and the media have talked of thugs lacking any cause or message, and the need for swift punishment, often jail. This is reminiscent of the official response to the riots of summer 2011. Again there is an absence of any attempt to understand why this is happening. If the rioters have a message, it is directed at immigrants. But a breakdown in social cohesion, lack of confidence in the political process, and an increased likelihood of violence, are expected effects of the high levels of income and wealth inequality we now live with. While some political leaders encourage anti-immigrant feeling, few talk about economic inequality. No wonder the rioters are aware of the one and not of the other.