The Economic Inequality as Normative Information Model (EINIM)

Abstract

This paper presents a new model that aims to contribute to the growing literature about the consequences of economic inequality: the economic inequality as normative information model (EINIM). In short, we argue that the level of economic inequality works as a cue that people use to infer the normative climate in a given society—for example, the common features that define individuals, societal attitudes, or institutions. Inferring these norms can potentially guide individuals’ thoughts, emotions, and behaviors; alternatively, people may not comply with the normative climate because they do not identify with such society. We therefore analyze the factors influencing conformity with inequality–normative information. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of the EINIM as well as new avenues for research.