Shifting attributions for poverty motivates opposition to inequality and enhances egalitarianism

Paul K. Piff (), Dylan Wiwad (), Angela R. Robinson, Lara B. Aknin, Brett Mercier and Azim Shariff
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Paul K. Piff: University of California
Dylan Wiwad: Simon Fraser University
Angela R. Robinson: University of California
Lara B. Aknin: Simon Fraser University
Brett Mercier: University of California
Azim Shariff: University of British Columbia

Nature Human Behaviour, 2020, vol. 4, issue 5, 496-505

Abstract: Abstract Amidst rising economic inequality and mounting evidence of its pernicious social effects, what motivates opposition to inequality? Five studies (n = 34,442) show that attributing poverty to situational forces is associated with greater concern about inequality, preference for egalitarian policies and inequality-reducing behaviour. In Study 1, situational attributions for poverty were associated with reduced support for inequality across 34 countries. Study 2 replicated these findings with a nationally representative sample of Americans. Three experiments then tested whether situational attributions for poverty are malleable and motivate egalitarianism. Bolstering situational attributions for poverty through a writing exercise (Study 3) and a computer-based poverty simulation (Studies 4a and b) increased egalitarian action and reduced support for inequality immediately (Studies 3 and 4b), 1 d later and 155 d post-intervention (Study 4b). Causal attributions for poverty offer one accessible means of shaping inequality-reducing attitudes and actions. Situational attributions may be a potent psychological lever for lessening societal inequality.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1038/s41562-020-0835-8

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