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Inequality based on Lorenz dominance criteria. An application to Mayotte using nightlights

Author

Listed:
  • Frédéric Chantreuil

    (Université de La Réunion, CEMOI)

  • Idriss Fontaine

    (Université de La Réunion, CEMOI)

  • François Hermet

    (Université de La Réunion, CEMOI)

Abstract

Using high-resolution spatial datasets for nightlights and population, we propose an alternative measure of income for the French overseas department of Mayotte in 2013 and 2019. From these two distributions, we examine changes in inequality between these periods by deriving both relative and absolute Lorenz curves. Standard criteria based on first- or second-degree relative Lorenz dominance are inconclusive, as the associated Lorenz curves intersect in both cases. By turning to the analysis of absolute Lorenz curves, we can discriminate between the two distributions, but only at the second-degree of Lorenz dominance. This finding suggests that, under the implied conception of distributive justice, Mayotte exhibited greater inequality in 2019 than in 2013.

Suggested Citation

  • Frédéric Chantreuil & Idriss Fontaine & François Hermet, 2025. "Inequality based on Lorenz dominance criteria. An application to Mayotte using nightlights," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 45(1), pages 446-457.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-24-00520
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Kolm, Serge-Christophe, 1976. "Unequal inequalities. II," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 13(1), pages 82-111, August.
    2. repec:lic:licosd:41920 is not listed on IDEAS
    3. Kolm, Serge-Christophe, 1976. "Unequal inequalities. I," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 12(3), pages 416-442, June.
    4. John Gibson & Susan Olivia & Geua Boe‐Gibson, 2020. "Night Lights In Economics: Sources And Uses," Journal of Economic Surveys, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 34(5), pages 955-980, December.
    5. J. Vernon Henderson & Adam Storeygard & David N. Weil, 2012. "Measuring Economic Growth from Outer Space," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 102(2), pages 994-1028, April.
    6. Antonio Villar, 2017. "Lectures on Inequality, Poverty and Welfare," Lecture Notes in Economics and Mathematical Systems, Springer, number 978-3-319-45562-4, December.
    7. Atkinson, Anthony B., 1970. "On the measurement of inequality," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 2(3), pages 244-263, September.
    8. Moyes, Patrick, 1987. "A new concept of Lorenz domination," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 23(2), pages 203-207.
    9. Sutton, Paul C. & Costanza, Robert, 2002. "Global estimates of market and non-market values derived from nighttime satellite imagery, land cover, and ecosystem service valuation," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 41(3), pages 509-527, June.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Nightlights; Inequality; Lorenz dominance criteria; Mayotte;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D3 - Microeconomics - - Distribution
    • D6 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics

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