What makes systemic inequality such a hard problem to tackle?
We sit down with Angarika Deb and Ákos Szegőfi and chat about their research on different aspects of the problem. We chat about the cognitive mechanisms involved in perpetuating systemic inequality both on the part of those benefiting from such systems and those who are marginalized by them. We also discuss the importance of narratives and access to information when it comes to both upholding and justifying inequality as well as challenging and dismantling it.
Show Notes:
Understanding Inequality and Social Narratives
The conversation explores why people justify social inequalities, focusing on how cultural norms shape individuals' acceptance of systemic disadvantages. Gender-based inequality serves as an example, explaining that people may unknowingly uphold gendered divisions of labor due to ingrained social expectations.
System justification theory is introduced, a concept suggesting that people rationalize inequalities to reduce discomfort. Rather than simply justifying inequalities to feel better, some may do so because of a lack of trust in others as "good partners." Studies show how narratives influence people's willingness to address inequality, with findings suggesting that, when given a chance to justify themselves, individuals tend to contribute less to correcting inequality.
Role of System Justification Theory
The theory posits that even those disadvantaged by social systems often justify these systems as fair. Originating from the work of psychologist John Jost, system justification theory argues that individuals cope with systemic inequality by creating narratives that explain or justify their disadvantaged position, believing that structural inequities are necessary or even fair.
Alternative views suggest that beliefs about inequality and power dynamics are influenced by both individual and societal narratives, proposing that people may interpret their role in inequality based on contextual, cultural, or interpersonal expectations.
Behavioral Experiments and Social Dynamics
Findings from experiments on resource distribution reveal that even when placed in a privileged position, people often choose fairer distributions. This may reflect a natural inclination for fairness or an expectation of future reciprocity.
Additional experiments on resource allocation show that participants who were given an opportunity to justify their actions tended to give less, using narratives around work ethic or ability to rationalize inequality. These findings suggest that narratives around inequality can significantly affect generosity and willingness to share resources.
Influence of Cultural Narratives and Group Identity
The influence of group identities on actions and decisions is examined, especially in polarized environments where populist narratives provide simplified explanations for complex social issues. Such narratives often shape beliefs about inequality, as societal perceptions of wealth and success may lead people to view those who have less as simply "less deserving."
The discussion highlights how belonging to certain social groups or adopting a specific narrative can provide justification for inequality, influencing individual actions and perceptions.
Cooperation, Trust, and Pro-Sociality
The importance of fostering cooperative, pro-social behavior is emphasized, with insights into research showing that people generally prefer fair outcomes and mutual aid. During crises, individuals often transcend personal biases to focus on collective survival, reflecting a natural inclination for cooperation.
The episode concludes with a discussion on human nature, suggesting that while social systems may promote competitive or individualistic behaviors, people’s natural inclination is toward fairness and cooperation. The challenge lies in designing social and economic systems that encourage pro-social behavior and minimize inequalities.