How does economic inequality affect democratic participation?

Economic inequality significantly limits access to resources and political influence, which in turn affects democratic participation. In a democratic system, one of the foundational principles is that all individuals have the right and capability to participate in political processes, be it through voting, advocacy, or other forms of engagement.

When there is a substantial degree of economic inequality, those with fewer resources often face barriers that inhibit their ability to engage politically. They may struggle to afford the costs associated with campaigning or might not have access to essential information and networks that are critical for effective participation. Consequently, individuals from lower economic backgrounds may feel disenfranchised, believing that their voices and interests are less likely to be represented in political dialogues and decision-making processes.

This limitation can create a cycle where economic elites are able to exert disproportionate influence over political outcomes, reinforcing their interests while marginalizing the perspectives of economically disadvantaged groups. Thus, economic inequality directly correlates with diminished democratic engagement among those who lack the necessary resources, leading to a less equitable political landscape and weakened democracy overall.