Why do people in societies with high levels of income inequality seem to be in comparatively poor health?

Question

Okay, to elaborate, I am saying that countries with higher income inequality (which is the difference between the poorest and the richest) have worse health than countries where everyone is on a relative even playing field economically. What do you beleive these reasons to be?

Answer 1

well, first, countries with a large income gap between classes usually possess a bottom class that still has a higher per ca-pita income than the poor in more moderate income gap countries. high gaps usually means more money across the board. health wise these countries tend to live more lavishly, consuming unhealthy foods and lifestyles. America's lower class are poor but not 'Africa' poor. they still buy cigarettes and booze and eat at McDonald's-a past time shared by the upper classes as well. this is due to the notion of Fast-goodness that plagues large gap economies.
and lastly, most importantly, there is a delusional sense of health security in these countries. in the US people assume advance technology and nice hospitals will save them when something serious happens. it is this fast food mentality they expect with health services. this false faith allows them to ignore prevention and rather, to focus on cure after the fact. this mentality is not conducive to healthiness.

Answer 2

Income inequality is hard to define - which is more unequal, a society with 20% below the poverty line or with 10% in staunch and destitute poverty?

You are right that there is something of a correlation, but you have a low sample size (less than 300 countries), and a significant number of other factors (including access to health care).

However, the reach and depth of poverty both contribute to poor health. It may be surmised that an oligarchic system (the rich and the few rule) does not allow much in the way of public goods such as Public Health, and as such you will see poorer health in general.

Answer 3

I think you're referring to the health care in the US which is costly in comparison to countries like Cuba who have free health care, but low income.

I think it's important to remember the quality of life in these countries are poor overall. People don't go to doctors for headaches and sinus infections in these 3rd world countries. And though health care is free in many of these countries, you might be on a waiting list for quite awhile just to get a tooth pulled.

Answer 4

What countries are you referring to? The US with 300 million people is the healthiest. The US has the best doctors and the most modern medical facilities on the planet.

Answer 5

CLARIFY PLEASE. ARE YOU SAYING THAT, " POOR HEALTH EXISTS FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS IN SOCIETIES WITH VERY HIGH AND LOW OVERALL LEVELS OF INCOME?" IF SO, I WOULD HAVE TO DISPUTE YOUR OBSERVATION.

Answer 6

they hold on to money instead of going to the doctor but you cant take it with you.

Answer 7

ya b/cos they don't do physical work....by doing physical works our body remains in order.