Parties ignore persistent economic inequality, study finds
Political parties often ignore economic inequality unless it changes, a 50-year study finds.
Why it matters
- Parties, especially left-wing, react only to changes in inequality, ignoring persistent issues despite social impacts.
- Right-wing parties ignore inequality entirely.
By the numbers
- Studied 12 OECD countries from 1970-2020.
- Analyzed 850,000 manifesto statements.
The big picture
- Democracies may perpetuate inequality due to structural factors.
- Meritocratic views and visibility of the rich contribute to ignoring inequality.
What they're saying
- Critics say ignoring inequality fuels societal problems.
- Some argue left-wing parties aren’t truly left if they ignore inequality.
Caveats
- Study based on manifesto analysis; may not reflect actual policies.
- Focuses on 12 OECD democracies; findings may not apply elsewhere.