Why Inequality Grows—Despite Welfare

Economically, the Matthew Effect is merciless. Those with savings can invest, buy property, start businesses, or take risks. Those without often take expensive loans, pay more to rent, and struggle to make ends meet. It becomes difficult even to think long-term.

In Sweden, one of the world's most equal countries by many measures, we still see growing economic inequality. Inheritances, property ownership, and stocks give some a head start others can never catch up to. It’s like a game of Monopoly where some already own hotels on Boardwalk while others are just receiving their first paycheck.

But it’s not just about money. It’s about social capital, cultural understanding, networks, security, and belief in one’s own abilities. And just like compound interest, these differences grow over time.

The Playing Field in Schools Is Uneven from the Start

In school, we see the Matthew Effect every day. A child who gets homework help, has books at home, and adults who encourage learning often gets a better start. That child receives praise, grows, gets even more support, and dares to take space. Another child, perhaps from an unstable background, falls behind—not because of lack of intelligence, but because the right conditions aren’t there.

I’ve worked with young people and seen how early failures shape self-images that are hard to shake. "I’m bad at math" can become a lifelong belief, regardless of actual potential.

Science, Art, and Social Media—All Obey the Same Rule

Sociologist Robert K. Merton coined the term "Matthew Effect" in 1968 while studying academic merit. He found that well-known researchers often received credit for work where lesser-known colleagues had done most of it. It wasn’t the content that mattered most—it was the name on the paper.

The same is true today. In the art world, famous names get exhibitions regardless of the quality of their work. On social media, algorithms boost those who already have followers. Once you’ve had a breakthrough—whether in research, music, or viral videos—your chances increase dramatically to have another.

It becomes a self-reinforcing cycle. And the reverse: those who never get a chance, those who don’t "succeed" early, only find it harder and harder to break through the noise.

Is It Really Fair—Or Even Effective?

We like to believe we live in a meritocracy: the most capable should get the job, the prize, the opportunity. But the Matthew Effect shows this is rarely how it works. Often, it's not about who is best—but who had the best conditions, the most visibility, or the most support.

Think of all the ideas never realized, the talent never discovered. Because those who hold them didn’t fit in, lacked the right contacts, or had previously failed. Society cannot afford such waste.

How Do We Break the Effect?

There is something we can do. It starts with recognizing the pattern—admitting the world is not as fair as we’d like to think. Then we must build structures that counteract the automatic reinforcement:

• Implement blind reviews of CVs, artworks, and research applications.

• Allocate more resources to schools in disadvantaged areas.

• Create space for new voices and perspectives—not just the established ones.

• Offer mentorship where successful individuals actively help others take the next step.

I believe in the power of the individual. But I believe even more in the power of a society that sees, uplifts, and believes in more than just those already at the top.

A Personal Reflection: I’ve Been There Myself

At times in my life, I’ve had the wind at my back. Doors opened, trust was given, opportunities stacked up. But I’ve also stood on the other side. I’ve felt what it’s like when nothing seems to help, when a downward spiral spins faster than you can manage.

It’s in those moments I’ve truly understood the Matthew Effect. It’s not just a concept—it’s an experience. It hurts. But it can also be reversed—with help, with courage, and with fair systems.

Conclusion: Build a Society That Balances the Scales

The Matthew Effect teaches us that not everything starts equally. But it also shows us we can change the trajectory. By giving more to those who have less—not as charity, but as investment—we can create a society where more people flourish.

Because in the end, it’s not just fair. It’s wise. It’s sustainable. And it’s human.