SOCIAL INEQUALITY AND SELF-ESTEEM

The relationship between social inequality and self-esteem is an issue of great concern in a society that embraces egalitarian ideals. The issue reflects a troubling question about whether societal systems of inequality and hierarchy subvert valued assumptions that, although considerable differences in ability, appearance, resources, and social station will exist in every society, people are nonetheless equal in the pursuit of happiness and personal wellbeing. Because the connection between self-esteem and psychological wellbeing seems both intuitively and empirically well grounded (e.g., Mecca, Smelser, & Vasconcellos, 1989; Mruk, 1995; Rosenberg, 1979; Wylie, 1979), the impact of social stratification on self-esteem becomes a central concern. Seemingly, if social inequalities strongly shape an individual's sense of selfidentity and self-regard, and do so in ways that are derogatory, then the egalitarian assumption is invalid, and democratic systems of social and political organization based on it become deceptions or delusions – a very disquieting prospect.

Correspondingly, over the past half century, we have accumulated a considerable amount of empirical research and scholarly analysis concerning the relationship between social inequality and self-esteem. This includes hundreds, if not thousands, of publications, a number that continues to grow up through the present time. What then does this body of research and scholarship reveal about the critical relationship between self-esteem and social inequality? Does it confirm that the social structures of status and privilege determine the individual's self-identify, self-regard, and prospects for success and happiness? Can we systematically and empirically answer this troubling question?