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A Note on Economic Inequality and Democratization

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  • Dorsch Michael T.

    (Central European University, School of Public Policy, Nádor u. 9, 1051 Budapest, Hungary)

  • Maarek Paul

    (University of Cergy-Pontoise, Department of Economics (THEMA), 33 boulevard du Port, 95011 Cergy-Pontoise Cedex, France)

Abstract

This brief note revisits the empirical relation between economic inequality and instances of democratization. We argue that economic inequality may be an explanatory factor only following macroeconomic downturns. Our point generalizes – empirical peace scientists examining the likelihood of major political events should consider the possibility that explanatory structural factors may have heterogeneous impacts across macroeconomic cycles.

Suggested Citation

  • Dorsch Michael T. & Maarek Paul, 2014. "A Note on Economic Inequality and Democratization," Peace Economics, Peace Science, and Public Policy, De Gruyter, vol. 20(4), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:pepspp:v:20:y:2014:i:4:p:12:n:3
    DOI: 10.1515/peps-2014-0025
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Dorsch, Michael T. & Maarek, Paul, 2020. "Economic downturns, inequality, and democratic improvements," European Journal of Political Economy, Elsevier, vol. 62(C).

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