Essays on Inequality and Attitudes

In contemporary society, the quest for equality remains a big challenge, with significant implications for economic stability, social cohesion, and individual well-being. Central to this pursuit is the human construct of what is deemed fair—a concept deeply embedded in societal norms, values, and attitudes. This thesis explores various dimensions of social inequality and investigates the effects of policy and structural interventions on mitigating these disparities. By examining economic inequality in consumption patterns, media influence in autocratic regimes, and gender inequality in work and family outcomes, this research shows how different forms of inequality manifest and how societal attitudes and perceptions can be shaped and changed. Human societies have long strived to define and achieve fairness, often viewing equality as a key component of this ideal. What is considered fair evolves over time, influenced by cultural, economic, and political changes. The chapters of this thesis are driven by the recognition of several unfair dynamics: the persistence of economic inequality despite economic growth, the unequal access to information in autocratic regimes, and the disproportionate burden on women in balancing work and family responsibilities. The first study investigates trends in consumption inequality in Russia over the past two decades. Utilizing data from the Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Study, this research documents the dynamics of consumption inequality, uncovering rising disparities between different income groups despite overall economic growth. The findings highlight the complexities of economic inequality and the need for targeted policy measures to address these gaps. The second paper examines the manipulation of information in autocratic regimes, emerging from informational inequality, and its impact on public perceptions and trust in institutions. Through an analysis of a Russian state-run television program featuring Vladimir Putin, this paper investigates how media framing can influence citizens' beliefs and attitudes towards the regime. The results underscore the effectiveness of strategic framing in bolstering trust and preventing dissent, revealing the ways in which media influence can sustain autocratic control. This exploration highlights the importance of transparency and informed public discourse in shaping societal norms and values. The third study delves into the persistent issue of gender inequality, focusing on the potential impacts of reduced work hours on the allocation of household responsibilities and work-life balance. By analyzing data from a four-day workweek campaign across six English-speaking countries, this study offers insights into how policy changes can promote greater gender equality in both work and family settings. It demonstrates how specific economic policies can target and address gender disparities, making the argument more tangible. Moreover, this study, along with the analysis of media framing, emphasizes the importance of attitudes and perceptions in understanding and addressing social inequalities. Despite the distinct contexts and focuses of these studies, they are united by a common aim: to understand and address the aspects of social inequality. The following chapters present each study in detail, building towards conclusions on the ways to promote a more equitable society.