Growing inequality leads to political unrest from "summary" of The Origins of Political Order by Francis Fukuyama
In the course of human history, one recurring pattern that has emerged is the connection between growing inequality and political unrest. When a society becomes increasingly unequal, with a small elite amassing disproportionate wealth and power while the majority of the population struggles to make ends meet, tensions inevitably arise. This imbalance in wealth and power creates a sense of injustice and resentment among those who feel marginalized and disenfranchised. As the gap between the haves and the have-nots widens, the social fabric of the society begins to fray. The elite class, with their access to resources and influence, are able to entrench their position and protect their interests at the expense of the broader population. This leads to a sense of alienation and disillusionment among the disenfranchised, who feel that the political system is rigged against them. In such a climate of growing inequality, political unrest becomes a natural consequence. The marginalized groups, feeling marginalized and voiceless, may turn to protest, civil disobedience, or even violence as a means of expressing their grievances and demanding change. This can manifest in various forms, from street demonstrations and strikes to full-blown revolutions aimed at overthrowing the existing political order. Moreover, the elite class, in their efforts to maintain their privileged position, may resort to authoritarian measures to suppress dissent and maintain control. This further exacerbates the sense of injustice and oppression felt by the disenfranchised, fueling the flames of political unrest and perpetuating a cycle of conflict and instability. In the long run, a society characterized by growing inequality and political unrest is unsustainable. Without addressing the root causes of inequality and addressing the grievances of the marginalized groups, the cycle of conflict and instability is likely to persist, undermining the stability and legitimacy of the political order. It is therefore imperative for societies to address issues of inequality and social injustice in order to prevent the escalation of political unrest and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.
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