Inequalities and Institutions - Einzelansicht

Why are economic resources, such as labour income or wealth, more evenly distributed in some countries than in others? Institutions such as the education system, the labour market or the welfare state contribute to structuring the distribution of economic resources between individuals (interpersonally) and over the life course (intertemporally). These institutions are structured differently in different countries; these specific configurations thus influence how economic inequality, mobility, redistribution and social inequality are related: They distribute life chances. The course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how inequality and institutions vary across countries with a focus on European countries. The course is structured into three thematic blocks that cover the following topics:

Block 1: Theories: How can we make sense of cross-country variation?

In this block, we will focus on the theoretical frameworks that can be used to understand the reasons for cross-country variation in inequalities. We will examine different approaches to theorizing, conceptualizing and measuring inequality, such as income inequality, wealth inequality, and intergenerational mobility.

Block 2: Inequalities across and within countries and the role of institutions

Students will be introduced to the empirical research on why countries differ in the levels and distributions of inequalities such as wealth inequality, environmental inequality, and income inequality. We will focus on the role of institutions such as the education system, the labor market, and the welfare state in shaping the distribution of economic resources between individuals and over the life course.

Block 3: How do people react to inequalities?

In this block, students will learn about how individuals across and within countries feel about different forms of inequalities.

Overall, the seminar provides an overview of the theoretical connections and empirical findings on the role of institutions in comparative welfare state research.

The course takes place as a whole-day block seminar at the University of Potsdam on June, 1, 2, & 9, 2023. An introductory meeting (90min) will take place on May 3, 2023 and serves as an administrative and content-related introduction. Participation in the first session is mandatory, as the details of participation will be explained and assignments will be allocated.

Overview of the course schedule:

- May 3: 9.00am-10.30am session (online, via zoom)

- June 1, 2, 9: 10am - 6pm