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Social gaps, perceived inequality and protests

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  • Bargain, Olivier
  • Jara, H. Xavier
  • Rivera, David

Abstract

Latent feelings of economic vulnerability and social stagnation may have catalyzed the unprecedented uprisings that shook Latin America and other parts of the world in 2018–2019. We document this process in the context of Chile, leveraging survey data on protest participation and its potential determinants. Specifically, we construct a “social gap” index, measuring the disconnect between objective and perceived social status. Our findings suggest that this status misperception predicts protest involvement beyond factors such as perceived living costs, the subjective value of public services, peer influence, redistributive views and political demands. Notably, the social gap operates independently of broader feelings of unfairness and anger toward inequalities in explaining protests.

Suggested Citation

  • Bargain, Olivier & Jara, H. Xavier & Rivera, David, 2026. "Social gaps, perceived inequality and protests," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 199(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:199:y:2026:i:c:s0305750x25003341
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2025.107248
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    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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