Political Inequality: Origins, Consequences, and Ways Ahead

Abstract

In this chapter I explore the topic of political inequality, something which can be regarded as both a byproduct of and an antecedent to socio-economic inequality. I examine the sources of political inequality, focusing on the role of resources for political inclusion. Political inequality furthermore impacts who gets elected and what kinds of policies are implemented and may even have grave consequences for the overall health and stability of democracies. There is, furthermore, variance in terms of the magnitude of the impact economic inequality has on political inequality. While there has been a tendency to place the blame on the groups themselves that are not politically active and attentive, it can be argued that public policies can do a lot to engage and draw in disadvantaged groups into political life. In outlining a research agenda for scholars of political inequality, I identify the some of the challenges and opportunities to be addressed by future research.