Causes of Social Inequality

What is social inequality?

Social inequality is when people are not treated equally and do not have the same chances in life.

What Social Inequality issues?

One example is discrimination, where some people are treated unfairly because of their background or identity.

Poverty is another issue. It means not having enough money, food, clothing, or shelter to live properly. This can lead to homelessness and poor health, especially for people living on low incomes or benefits.

Educational disadvantage can also happen when young people in poorer areas struggle to succeed in school.

Some groups may face marginalisation, meaning they are left out or not given the same chances as others in society.

What causes Social Inequality?

Some causes of social inequality include:

Uneven distribution of wealth

Financial resources and assets are unevenly distributed across the population. A relatively small percentage of people have a greater proportion of wealth compared to the majority of people. People with greater wealth have access to more opportunities than those with less wealth.

Income - Unequal levels of income

A significant difference in income between people at the top and bottom levels of income advantages those on higher income and disadvantages those at the lower end of the income scale. People at the bottom end of the income scale have access to fewer opportunities than those at the top.

The family you are born into - its wealth and assets - status/class

Some people may hold privileged positions such as hereditary titles or may have gained a high status in society. They can use their position to access opportunities and this advantages them compared to others not in that position.

Lack of social mobility

There may be few opportunities for people in lower income/status groups to improve their position in society. This limits their opportunities/life chances.

Employment/unemployment

People who are unemployed or in low paid employment have less opportunities than those in well paid jobs. Unemployed people are more likely to be living in poverty.

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED ON THIS

Describe one social inequality issue. (2 marks)

Poverty is a social inequality issue where people do not have enough money, food, clothing, or shelter to meet their basic needs. This affects their standard of living and overall well-being.

You should also read:

Reasons why a young person may become homeless

Why social equality is important in society