Sibship and Inequality Beliefs: Do Siblings Have a Liberalizing or Conservatizing Effect?

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Abstract

Scholars of stratification have recently reinvigorated debates surrounding inequality attitudes. That is, how do individuals come to hold certain beliefs about meritocracy, taxation, and redistribution? Meanwhile, social scientists analyzing family dynamics are increasingly turning their attention toward life course approaches and the long-term social effects of distinct family features. One facet of this work includes studies that focus on the social role of siblings throughout the life course. Growing up with siblings may influence several social outcomes in adulthood such as psychological well-being, likelihood of divorce, and relationship quality with others. In the present study, we investigate the relationship at the intersection of these bodies of literature. How does growing up with (more) siblings influence one’s attitudes toward inequality? Do siblings provide early and recurrent reminders of collectivist sentiments or might these same relationships promote competition and individualism? We investigate these questions using nationally representative data from the General Social Survey (GSS) from 1980 to 2016. Results from OLS regression models indicate that siblings have a conservatizing effect when it comes meritocracy beliefs. On the other hand, we find limited evidence of siblings influencing attitudes toward redistribution. We discuss the relevance of these results as they relate to two broader ongoing social trends – rising economic inequality and declining family size. Finally, we conclude with recommendations for future research.

Authors

• Joseph Merry, Furman University

• Donna Bobbitt-Zeher, Ohio State University