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The Labour Supply of Sex Workers in Cape Town

Author

Listed:
  • Matthew Butler-Adams

    (SALDRU, School of Economics, University of Cape Town)

  • Justine Burns

    (SALDRU, School of Economics, University of Cape Town)

Abstract

Traditional labour economics predicts that the supply of labour will increase as earnings increase. However, labour supply need not be positive, especially if workers make decisions based on short-term income targets. Income targeting may best describe jobs where workers decide on working hours and where wages are uncorrelated across days. This paper examines the labour supply of sex workers in Cape Town, whose working conditions largely fulfill these criteria. Contrary to traditional economic theory, we find evidence of a negative labour supply curve.

Suggested Citation

  • Matthew Butler-Adams & Justine Burns, 2011. "The Labour Supply of Sex Workers in Cape Town," SALDRU Working Papers 60, Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town.
    • Handle: RePEc:ldr:wpaper:60
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    2. Lucas, Robert E, Jr & Rapping, Leonard A, 1969. "Real Wages, Employment, and Inflation," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 77(5), pages 721-754, Sept./Oct.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Labour supply; sex workers; hyperbolic discounting;
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