Economic Inequality

Beyond partisan differences over economic policies, there are stark divisions on a fundamental question: What makes someone rich or poor?

As part of a new study, Pew Research Center designed income calculators to help you determine where you fit on the income ladder in Western Europe.

A Pew Research Center analysis of income data from 11 Western European countries finds considerable differences in the fortunes of the middle classes in those countries. See where you fall on your country's income ladder.

The fortunes of the middle classes across Western Europe are moving in different directions. Some nations are experiencing both growing incomes and expanding middle classes, while other nations are witness to stagnant or declining incomes and shrinking middle classes, a new Pew Research Center analysis of 11 Western European countries has found. But in a few other countries studied, the middle-class shares are decreasing even as incomes overall are rising.

From 1991 to 2010, the middle class expands in France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, but, as in the United States, shrinks in Germany, Italy and Spain

The most frequently cited reason for not taking family or medical leave when one needs or wants to is concern over loss of wages or salary.

Nearly six-in-ten people in the United States say the economic situation is very or somewhat good, the most positive assessment of the economy since 2007.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the U.S. government granting American citizenship to the residents of Puerto Rico, here are key facts about the territory.

Many Americans support paid family and medical leave, and most supporters say employers should cover the costs.

Lower-income Republicans are somewhat more likely than higher-income Republicans to support the Affordable Care Act, and many say ensuring health care coverage for all is a government responsibility.