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How polarized is the global income distribution?

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  • Roope, Laurence
  • Niño-Zarazúa, Miguel
  • Tarp, Finn

Abstract

The interest in the level of global inequality has surged in recent years. This paper complements existing estimates of global inequality by providing the first estimates of the level of bipolarization of the global income distribution. During 1975–2010, global bipolarization declined substantially according to ‘relative’ measures, while it increased according to ‘absolute’ measures. The results mirror trends in global inequality over the same period.

Suggested Citation

  • Roope, Laurence & Niño-Zarazúa, Miguel & Tarp, Finn, 2018. "How polarized is the global income distribution?," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 167(C), pages 86-89.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:167:y:2018:i:c:p:86-89
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2018.03.013
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Polarization; Bipolarization; Global polarization; Global inequality; Polarization measures;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration

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