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Polarization Characterization Of Inequality-Neutral Tax Reforms

Author

Listed:
  • Juan Prieto-Rodríguez

    (Universidad de Oviedo & IEF)

  • Rafael Salas

    (Universidad Complutense & IEF)

  • Juan Gabriel Rodríguez

    (Universidad Rey Juan Carlos & IEF)

Abstract

In this article, polarization measurement is presented as a useful tool for characterizing the net transfers of income between individuals caused by a tax reform. The bipolarization measure, which considers just two poles and involves the disappearance of the middle class, may complement inequality measures insofar as it provides an alternative explanation of the distributional impact of inequality neutral tax reforms. Some theoretical implications of an inequality- and revenue-neutral tax reform concerning polarization are examined. We conclude with an empirical application where we carry out a simulation to evaluate the effects on polarization of a potential substitution of the current Spanish tax system for an inequality- and revenue- neutral linear tax.

Suggested Citation

  • Juan Prieto-Rodríguez & Rafael Salas & Juan Gabriel Rodríguez, 2003. "Polarization Characterization Of Inequality-Neutral Tax Reforms," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 4(19), pages 1-7.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-03d30003
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Wolfson, Michael C, 1994. "When Inequalities Diverge," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 84(2), pages 353-358, May.
    2. Wolfson, Michael, 1997. "Divergent Inequalities - Theory and Empirical Results (Revised Edition)," Analytical Studies Branch Research Paper Series 1997066e, Statistics Canada, Analytical Studies Branch.
    3. Juan G. Rodríguez & Rafael Salas, "undated". "Extended Bi-Polarization And Inequality Measures," Working Papers 10-03 Classification-JEL , Instituto de Estudios Fiscales.
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    7. Coulter, Fiona A E & Cowell, Frank A & Jenkins, Stephen P, 1992. "Differences in Needs and Assessment of Income Distributions," Bulletin of Economic Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 44(2), pages 77-124, April.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Mohammad Hussain, 2009. "The sensitivity of income polarization," The Journal of Economic Inequality, Springer;Society for the Study of Economic Inequality, vol. 7(3), pages 207-223, September.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D3 - Microeconomics - - Distribution
    • H3 - Public Economics - - Fiscal Policies and Behavior of Economic Agents

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