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The Inverted Pyramid and Beyond: Perceptions of Distributive Justice Among (Highly) Qualified Workers in Contemporary Cuba

Author

Listed:
  • Nina Jany

    (University of Fribourg, Switzerland)

  • Monica Budowski

    (University of Fribourg, Switzerland)

Abstract

In 2020/2021, wage scale reforms were implemented in Cuba to improve distributive justice. The previously long-prevailing wage system and resulting wage structure, often referred to as an inverted pyramid , is said to have especially affected (highly) qualified workers in Cuba. This research provides emergent and partly speculative data on perceptions of distributive justice that (highly) qualified workers in Havana held during the time of change. The results of the exploratory study reinforce and illustrate the common claim in the literature that wage differentiation based on equity principles receives broad support. At the same time, we show how principles of need and equality also have their place in the interviewees’ reasonings. Finally, we outline two different patterns that interviewees invoke to explain why they perceive equity violations as unjust.

Suggested Citation

  • Nina Jany & Monica Budowski, 2025. "The Inverted Pyramid and Beyond: Perceptions of Distributive Justice Among (Highly) Qualified Workers in Contemporary Cuba," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 30(3), pages 839-848, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:30:y:2025:i:3:p:839-848
    DOI: 10.1177/13607804241259279
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. David Aristei & Cristiano Perugini, 2016. "Inequality aversion in post-communist countries in the years of the crisis," Post-Communist Economies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 28(4), pages 436-448, October.
    2. Robert Andersen & Yaish, M. (Meir), 2012. "GINI DP 48: Public Opinion on Income Inequality in 20 Democracies: The Enduring Impact of Social Class and Economic Inequality," GINI Discussion Papers 48, AIAS, Amsterdam Institute for Advanced Labour Studies.
    3. repec:aia:ginidp:dp48 is not listed on IDEAS
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