The World Bank yesterday released its new Human Opportunity Index report. This first round focused on Latin America because of the extremes of inequality presented by the region; however, future rounds will be extended to other parts of the world. According to the press release:
The study also finds that between one fourth (Colombia) and one half (Guatemala) of income inequality among Latin American adults is due to circumstances outside of their control, faced in the beginning of their lives. Race is a key factor to explain income differentials, especially for the most disadvantaged groups.
As longitudinal data develops over the next few years, it will be interesting to see how inequality of opportunity and attitudes to the private sector relate. My guess? High levels of inequality will be highly correlated with negative attitudes, regardless of the role that the private sector can play in expanding opportunity.
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