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Lognormal (Re)Distribution: A Macrofounded Theory of Inequality

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  • Jon Eguia
  • Dimitrios Xefteris

Abstract

We study how political competition over redistribution determines income inequality under two macrofounded premises: a) the income distribution is approximately log-normal before and after any policy intervention; and b) voters' income and turnout rates are positively related. The unique equilibrium features substantial income inequality and less than maximal redistribution, even if the voters' median income is very low. Fitting our model to the US economy, we argue that either the efficiency cost of redistribution is higher than estimates in the literature, or else US's redistributive policies are optimal for an agent richer than the median voter.

Suggested Citation

  • Jon Eguia & Dimitrios Xefteris, 2022. "Lognormal (Re)Distribution: A Macrofounded Theory of Inequality," University of Cyprus Working Papers in Economics 04-2022, University of Cyprus Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucy:cypeua:04-2022
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Cowell, Frank, 2011. "Measuring Inequality," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, edition 3, number 9780199594047.
    2. Mark Aguiar & Mark Bils, 2015. "Has Consumption Inequality Mirrored Income Inequality?," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 105(9), pages 2725-2756, September.
    3. Erich Battistin & Richard Blundell & Arthur Lewbel, 2009. "Why Is Consumption More Log Normal than Income? Gibrat's Law Revisited," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 117(6), pages 1140-1154, December.
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    7. Meltzer, Allan H & Richard, Scott F, 1981. "A Rational Theory of the Size of Government," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 89(5), pages 914-927, October.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Income inequality; redistribution; lognormal distribution; macrofoundations;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • H20 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - General
    • E62 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Fiscal Policy; Modern Monetary Theory

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