The Ripple Effects of Time Inequality on Perceived Autonomy and Social Trust: Evidence from South Korea and OECD Democracies

Abstract Social trust, a fundamental component of societal cohesion and democratic stability, is influenced by structural and social factors, including time inequality. This study investigates how time inequality, particularly extended work hours and constrained discretionary time, affects social trust through perceived autonomy. This study examines both direct and indirect pathways through which temporal disparities influence social trust, using path analysis and staged regression models to ensure methodological rigor. Findings reveal that extended work hours significantly reduce perceived autonomy, which in turn lowers social trust. Additionally, work hours have a direct negative impact on social trust, confirming time scarcity as an independent structural constraint on social cohesion. Path analysis, with maximum likelihood estimation, quantifies these relationships, while sequential regression models further decompose their mechanisms. This study employs cross-national comparative data from OECD democracies, demonstrating that time inequality’s effects extend beyond South Korea. These results underscore the global significance of time inequality and its policy implications. Addressing excessive work hours, promoting work–life balance, and ensuring equitable access to discretionary time are critical for strengthening social trust, fostering civic engagement, and enhancing democratic resilience in contemporary societies.