Richard Wilkinson is a British epidemiologist and public health researcher, best known for his work on the social determinants of health. He co-authored the influential book, The Spirit Level: Why More Equal Societies Almost Always Do Better, which argues that greater income equality leads to better health and social outcomes. Wilkinson has focused on how income inequality affects various aspects of society, including education, crime, and mental health. His research emphasizes the importance of addressing economic disparities to improve overall well-being and promote social cohesion within communities.