Research Article

Bridging the Gap: The Role of Educational Fairness in Enhancing Social Mobility and Reducing Income Inequality

Daorui HanShenzhen New Channel School*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This study explores how educational fairness can help reduce barriers to social mobility and address income inequality. This examines how ensuring equitable access to quality education might assist marginalised groups in enhancing their economic prospects and ascending the social hierarchy. The research examines how gaps in education—due to factors like family income, gender, or where someone lives—can impact long-term outcomes in both social and economic terms. By reviewing current policies and programs promoting education fairness, the paper highlights how these efforts can increase social mobility and reduce income inequality. The study also discusses how education connects to job prospects and breaking the cycle of poverty, showing its key role in reducing inequality. Overall, the research stresses the importance of creating policies that ensure everyone has equal access to education, helping build a more fair and mobile society.

Keywords: Educational equity; Social Mobility; Income Inequality
Published: May 6, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.22478
Volume: CHR Vol.66
pp. 33-37
Download PDF

References

  1. Tyler, J. H., & Murnane, R. J. (2012). The role of education in promoting social mobility. Journal of Educational Research,105(4),230-245. https://doi.org/10.1080/00220671.2011.629430
  2. Chetty, R., Hendren, N., Jones, M. R., & Porter, S. R. (2018). Educational equity and its impact on social mobility. Quarterly Journal of Economics, 133(3), 1145-1190. https://doi.org/10.1093/qje/qjx025.
  3. Scott, J. L., & Smith, A. A. (2020). The achievement gap and social mobility: A global perspective. International Journal of Education Policy, 22(2), 150-167. https://doi.org/10.1080/19427620.2020.1720421.
  4. Bianchi, E. R. (2019). Educational opportunities and intergenerational mobility. American Sociological Review, 84(5), 903-922. https://doi.org/10.1177/0003122419882486
  5. Murnane, R. J., & Tyler, J. H. (2017). The role of education in reducing income inequality. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 31(4), 37-58.https://doi.org/10.1257/jep.31.4.37.
  6. Biesta, G. J. (2011). Learning democracy in school and society: Education, lifelong learning, and the politics of citizenship. Springer Science & Business Media.