Journal of Comparative Economics

Economic or Political Uncertainty in Early Life Reduces Later Tolerance

Journal Article
Reference
Berggren, Niclas, Andreas Bergh and Therese Nilsson (forthcoming). “Economic or Political Uncertainty in Early Life Reduces Later Tolerance”. Journal of Comparative Economics. doi.org/10.1016/j.jce.2026.01.009

Authors
Niclas Berggren, Andreas Bergh, Therese Nilsson

This study examines how economic-political uncertainty during formative years affects adult tolerance. Using the World Uncertainty Index and European Social Survey, findings show that uncertainty, especially at ages 6-12 and 18-25, reduces tolerance toward minorities later in life. Strong democratic institutions buffer this effect.