The problem of excessive inequality as an obstacle to the realization of the functions of the social state (on the example of the Volga Federal District)

The aim of the work is to determine the extent of regional differentiation in living standards (based on the analysis of monetary indicators) within the Volga Federal District, as well as the determination of the intraregional level of socio-economic inequality. The object of the study is the phenomenon of inequality as an antipode of the criterion of the social state. The subject of the study is the parameters of socio-economic inequality by income of the population of the regions of the Volga Federal District. The research methodology is based on an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the phenomenon of inequality as a limiter of the target function of the social state. Results of the study and scientific novelty. 1. The author proposes to determine the degree of distancing society from the practical realization of the idea of the social state, defining the state of equality as a blue marker of the social state, and excessive inequality as a red marker of the social state. 2. The paper presents an analysis of the level of socio-economic inequality of the regions of the Volga Federal District. 3. In the author's opinion, one of the trigger mechanisms for solving the problem of socio-economic inequality should be social elevators that reduce the degree of distancing from the blue marker of the social state. 4. The author sees the root of solution in the structural transformation of the economy.

welfare state, markers of a welfare state, socio-economic inequality, equal opportunities, regional differentiation, standard of living, household income, redistributive policy, structural policy, social elevator