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On Measuring Literacy

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  • Basu, Kaushik
  • Foster, James E

Abstract

This paper presents a new approach to evaluating the aggregate literacy level in a country or region. The resulting 'effective literacy' measure takes into account the intrahousehold externality arising from the presence of a literate member. A simple and natural axiomatic characterization is provided along with an empirical illustration using Indian data.

Suggested Citation

  • Basu, Kaushik & Foster, James E, 1998. "On Measuring Literacy," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 108(451), pages 1733-1749, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecj:econjl:v:108:y:1998:i:451:p:1733-49
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