Mobility
What it is and why it is important
Mobility research investigates the movement of individuals and groups within and between social strata, geographic regions, and economic conditions.
Our research identifies barriers to economic opportunity for people from different backgrounds and informs policies to promote social and economic equity.
Key research topics in this field include:
- Investigating patterns of social mobility, including both upward and downward shifts within social hierarchies.
- Analyzing changes in economic status for individuals and families over generations.
- Studying migration patterns and examining their impacts on both originating and receiving communities and economies.
Research that has the ability to link inequality at earlier ages, or even among one’s parents, to inequality later in life is a promising area.
Damon Jones
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The Inequality Podcast
We bring research on inequality to life through dynamic conversations with experts in the field.
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Episode #38: Alexander Monge-Naranjo on the College Affordability Crisis
Featured Episode In Mobility
September 22, 2025
Guests
Alexander Monge-Naranjo
It’s no secret that college is expensive, and that lower-income students often require more assistance to manage those high costs. What’s less well known is how access to credit—or the lack thereof—can enhance or reduce inequality.