3.2 What attempts have been made to reduce social inequalities?

2026 Syllabus Objectives

Students should be able to understand and explain:

3.2.1 The use of legislation within societies to reduce inequality

  • Progressive taxation
  • The redistribution of wealth through benefits
  • A minimum wage
  • Equal opportunities laws
  • Other government measures

3.2.2 The development and impact of welfare states on life chances

  • Free and/or universal education
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Pensions
  • Low-cost housing
  • Free healthcare
  • Universal basic income

3.2.3 The global work of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to reduce inequalities

  • Reducing poverty
  • Providing medical assistance
  • Promoting business
  • Improving education

3.2.4 Sociological views of the success of attempts to reduce social inequalities

  • New Right criticisms of the welfare state/underclass
  • The culture of poverty and the dependency culture
  • Marxist criticisms of the welfare state
  • Criticisms of NGOs
  • Feminist criticisms of equality legislation

📊 The Use of Legislation Within Societies to Reduce Inequality

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Historical Context and Trends

During the 20th century, many modern industrial societies experienced a trend towards reduction in inequality, largely facilitated by the expansion of the welfare state. However, this positive trend reversed towards the end of the century, with inequality beginning to increase again.

🔑 Key Term: Distribution of Wealth

Distribution of wealth refers to the way in which the wealth of a nation is divided among its population.

Impact of High Inequality

Societies with high levels of inequality, such as the USA and UK, tend to score poorly on various social indicators:

  • Physical and mental health outcomes
  • Obesity rates
  • Educational performance
  • Violence levels
  • Lack of social mobility

Comparative Example:

  • In Japan, Norway, Sweden, and Finland: The richest 20% are approximately four times richer than the poorest 20%
  • In the USA: The richest 20% are more than eight times richer than the poorest 20%

This stark difference demonstrates how inequality varies significantly across different societies.

Government Role

Governments utilize legislation to ensure that living standards for the poorest members of society do not fall too low, attempting to maintain a basic standard of living for all citizens.

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