This paper examines the relationship between individual preferences for redistribution and social mobility in the United States. The authors find that while the poor generally favor redistribution, the rich oppose it. However, the impact of social mobility on these preferences is complex. The study estimates the determinants of preferences for redistribution using individual-level data from the US and finds that individual support for redistribution is negatively affected by social mobility. Specifically, individuals who believe that the American society offers equal opportunities to all are more averse to redistribution in the face of increased mobility. On the other hand, those who perceive the social "rat race" as biased do not see social mobility as an alternative to redistributive policies. The paper also explores the role of altruism, risk aversion, and individual characteristics such as sex, race, and education in shaping preferences for redistribution. The results suggest that risk-averse individuals are more supportive of redistribution, and that women and racial minorities are more favorable to it. The study concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for understanding the political economy of redistributive policies.This paper examines the relationship between individual preferences for redistribution and social mobility in the United States. The authors find that while the poor generally favor redistribution, the rich oppose it. However, the impact of social mobility on these preferences is complex. The study estimates the determinants of preferences for redistribution using individual-level data from the US and finds that individual support for redistribution is negatively affected by social mobility. Specifically, individuals who believe that the American society offers equal opportunities to all are more averse to redistribution in the face of increased mobility. On the other hand, those who perceive the social "rat race" as biased do not see social mobility as an alternative to redistributive policies. The paper also explores the role of altruism, risk aversion, and individual characteristics such as sex, race, and education in shaping preferences for redistribution. The results suggest that risk-averse individuals are more supportive of redistribution, and that women and racial minorities are more favorable to it. The study concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for understanding the political economy of redistributive policies.