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Reassessing the relationship between inequality and development

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  • Hugo Rojas-Romagosa
  • J.F. Francois

Abstract

We reassess the empirical relevance of the Kuznets Curve with a new inequality dataset. Using panel data estimations that account for the heterogeneity of inequality observations, we test for both the unconditional and the conditional hypothesis that includes alternative inequality determinants. We find that inequality and income levels are related in a cubic function or "tilde-pattern". This novel finding does not contradict the traditional Kuznets hypothesis, but extends it. Increasing inequality in OECD countries during recent years suggests that inequality rises at high levels of economic development. This “tilde-pattern” is robust to different inequality indicators, estimation techniques and control variables.

Suggested Citation

  • Hugo Rojas-Romagosa & J.F. Francois, 2008. "Reassessing the relationship between inequality and development," CPB Discussion Paper 107, CPB Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpb:discus:107
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Vassilis Monastiriotis, 2014. "Regional Growth and National Development: Transition in Central and Eastern Europe and the Regional Kuznets Curve in the East and the West," Spatial Economic Analysis, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 9(2), pages 142-161, June.

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    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration

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