There are several ways to explain the correlation between societal inequality and negative outcomes such as lower life expectancy, higher rates of obesity, imprisonment, homicide, and other social and health issues. Some possible explanations include:
Limited access to resources: In unequal societies, there may be disparities in access to basic resources such as healthcare, education, nutritious food, clean water, and safe living conditions. This can result in poorer health outcomes, including lower life expectancy and higher rates of obesity and other health issues.
Socioeconomic stress: In societies with high levels of inequality, there may be increased levels of socioeconomic stress among marginalized or disadvantaged populations. Economic insecurity, lack of social mobility, and persistent poverty can contribute to chronic stress, which has been linked to negative health outcomes, including mental health issues and increased rates of imprisonment and homicide.
Unequal distribution of power and resources: In societies with significant inequality, there may be disparities in the distribution of power and resources, leading to social exclusion and marginalization of certain groups. This can result in social unrest, crime, and violence, including higher rates of homicide and imprisonment.
Limited opportunities for education and skill development: Unequal societies may have limited opportunities for education and skill development for certain groups, resulting in reduced opportunities for economic and social advancement. This can contribute to a cycle of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to resources, leading to poorer health outcomes and other negative social indicators.
Social cohesion and trust: In societies with high levels of inequality, social cohesion and trust among different segments of the population may be diminished. This can lead to social fragmentation, reduced social capital, and lower levels of social cooperation, which can negatively impact societal well-being, including health outcomes.
It's important to note that these explanations are complex and multifactorial, and other factors, such as cultural, historical, and political factors, can also influence the relationship between societal inequality and negative social and health outcomes. However, research has shown that there is evidence of a correlation between societal inequality and poorer performance in terms of life expectancy, obesity, imprisonment, homicide, and other social indicators.