Attitudes Toward Income Inequality in China: Revisiting the Concern About Inequality from a Comparative Perspective

Abstract

This study investigates attitudes toward income inequality in China, challenging the prevailing perception that Chinese citizens are tolerant of inequality. Using data from a large-scale cross-national survey encompassing 30 countries, the study examines the unique position of China, where citizens express one of the highest average concerns about income inequality. These concerns have not evolved alongside the marketization of the Chinese economy since the 1980s. Our analysis reveals that Chinese attitudes toward inequality are more similar to those in post-socialist countries than in liberal capitalist societies. However, Chinese citizens also prioritize a fair society with minimal differences and favor an active governmental role in redistribution, aligning their preferences with those found in welfare-oriented market societies. The study further explores sociodemographic predictors, finding that concern about inequality is particularly pronounced among males, highly educated, and older individuals, which may reflect system justification beliefs. Education is linked to stronger egalitarian preferences and support for government intervention, while age consistently exercises a positive effect on these attitudes, highlighting parallels with post-socialist rather than liberal capitalist or welfare states.