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Inequality of opportunity and mass incidents: Evidence from China

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  • Guangsu Zhou
  • Lizhong Liu
  • Yang Song

Abstract

This paper is one of the first to quantitatively analyse the relationship between inequality of opportunity and social stability in the context of China. Utilizing Census data of 2005 and the data of recorded mass incidents, we find a positive and robust correlation between inequality of opportunity and the outbreak of mass incidents. Amongst different types of mass incidents, inequality of opportunity displays the most significant correlation with those involving the government and the public. We also identify the lack of trust and higher unemployment as two potential channels through which inequality of opportunity exerts impacts on the happening of mass incidents.

Suggested Citation

  • Guangsu Zhou & Lizhong Liu & Yang Song, 2022. "Inequality of opportunity and mass incidents: Evidence from China," Economics of Transition and Institutional Change, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 30(3), pages 465-488, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:ectrin:v:30:y:2022:i:3:p:465-488
    DOI: 10.1111/ecot.12313
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