Story perspectives

Rising Inequality Linked to Increased Global Work Hours

1/1/2026

Summary

Researchers Find Inequality Impact

Researchers from Beijing Normal University and the University of Lausanne find that rising income inequality correlates with higher work hours worldwide.
The study analyzes data from nearly 70 countries, including the United States and China.
In the United States, disadvantaged groups work longer hours because of inequality.
In China, advantaged urban residents also work longer hours.
A one-unit rise in perceived inequality adds about 10 hours annually.

History

Historical Context

The Great Depression, triggered by the Wall Street crash in October 1929, led to a global economic downturn lasting until 1939. In the U.S., unemployment soared to 25%, while industrial production plummeted by nearly 45%. This crisis exacerbated income inequality and labor struggles, trends that resonate today as rising income disparity and longer work hours continue to challenge workers worldwide.

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Researchers Find Inequality Impact

Researchers from Beijing Normal University and the University of Lausanne find that rising income inequality correlates with higher work hours worldwide.
The study analyzes data from nearly 70 countries, including the United States and China.
In the United States, disadvantaged groups work longer hours because of inequality.
In China, advantaged urban residents also work longer hours.
A one-unit rise in perceived inequality adds about 10 hours annually.

1 / 2