Elites and the Idea of Equality

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This work explores the meaning of equality in three modern democracies, focusing on perspectives from both influential leaders and challengers of the status quo. Utilizing extensive questionnaire data from various societal segments—such as business, labor unions, political parties, and media, as well as groups advocating for greater equality like feminists and minority leaders—the authors examine the shared and divergent interpretations of equality within and across nations. They identify areas of consensus and conflict, addressing significant theoretical and substantive issues, including the influence of values on egalitarian outcomes and the comparison of perceptions regarding economic and political equality. The book also investigates how political institutions in different countries impact the integration of new equality demands into policymaking, with a particular emphasis on gender equality policies. This analysis may spark controversy, as some argue that political economy should not include value analysis. It serves as a resource for those interested in politics and culture, as well as social scientists, and acts as an informative sequel to a previous work by Sidney Verba and Gary R. Orren, which examines similar themes in a national context.