Question

From an economic standpoint, why is reducing horizontal inequality important in conflict-prone societies?

1. Violent conflicts undermine development and increase poverty.
2. Reducing horizontal inequality has no economic implications in conflict-prone societies.
3. Economic stability is achieved by ignoring horizontal inequality.

• A. 2, 3
• B. All
• C. 1, 3
• D. 1 only

Answer 1

Answer:

D. 1 only

• Group inequality generates powerful grievances which leaders can use to mobilise people to political protest.

• While such mobilisations might themselves work as instruments to reduce inequality through benefits extended by the government in response to organised protests, from an economic standpoint, focusing on reduction of horizontal inequality is particularly important in conflict-prone societies.

• This is because violent conflicts are known to undermine development and increase poverty