Inequality and Social Cohesion

This policy paper examines the impacts of inequality and poverty in Ireland today, then builds on (forthcoming) research undertaken by Dr Daniel Jolley and Dr Michael Hattersley at the University of Nottingham, Dr Yvonne Skipper at the University of Glasglow and Prof Karen Douglas at the University of Kent, which explores the links between the impact of inequality, conspiracy beliefs, and anti-immigrant sentiment. A critical insight of this research is that inequality is not only materially damaging, but it also likely undermines social cohesion and political literacy. If policy intends to tackle the symptom, it needs to address the cause.

Social Justice Ireland presents this paper as a contribution to public policy discourse on inequality, integration and social cohesion.