Economic Inequality and Its Effects on Social Mobility: A Global Perspective

Abstract

The widening gap between the rich and the poor has become a defining characteristic of the 21st century, raising concerns about its impact on social mobility and the very fabric of societies across the globe. This article delves into the complex relationship between economic inequality and social mobility, exploring its diverse manifestations and consequences across different countries and social contexts. We examine how rising inequality hampers the ability of individuals to move up the economic ladder, perpetuating cycles of poverty and disadvantage, and ultimately threatening social cohesion and democratic stability. By drawing upon empirical evidence from various regions, theoretical frameworks on stratification, and policy interventions aimed at mitigating inequality, the article seeks to illuminate the multifaceted challenges posed by economic disparities and proposes potential pathways for fostering a more equitable and mobile future.