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Intergenerational links, taxation, and wealth distribution

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  • Wan, Jing
  • Zhu, Shenghao

Abstract

We extend one of the main findings in Bossmann et al. (2007)("Bequests, taxation and the distribution of wealth in a general equilibrium model," Journal of Public Economics, 91, 1247-1271). Bequest motives per se reduce wealth inequality. We show that the result holds for a stronger criterion of inequality comparison between distributions. Bossmann et al. (2007) use the coefficient of varation as the inequality measure. Our Lorenz dominance result implies their result. We also strengthen two other conclusions in Bossmann et al. (2007). Earnings ability inheritance could increase wealth inequality and estate taxes could decrease wealth inequality.

Suggested Citation

  • Wan, Jing & Zhu, Shenghao, 2012. "Intergenerational links, taxation, and wealth distribution," MPRA Paper 39511, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:39511
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Chatzouz, Moustafa, 2014. "Government Debt and Wealth Inequality: Theory and Insights from Altruism," MPRA Paper 77007, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Wealth inequality; Bequest motives; Inheritance of earings ability; Estate taxes; Lorenz dominance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • E21 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Consumption; Saving; Wealth
    • H23 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Externalities; Redistributive Effects; Environmental Taxes and Subsidies

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