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Technology diffusion and its effects on social inequalities

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  • Magalhães, Manuela
  • Hellström, Christian

Abstract

We develop a dynamic general-equilibrium framework in which growth is driven by skill-biased technology diffusion. The model incorporates leisure–labor decisions and human capital accumulation through education. We are able to reproduce the trends in income inequality and labor and skills supplies observed in the United States between 1969 and 1996. The paper also provides an explanation for why more individuals invest in human capital when the investment premium is going down, and why the skill-premium goes up when the skills supply is increasing.

Suggested Citation

  • Magalhães, Manuela & Hellström, Christian, 2013. "Technology diffusion and its effects on social inequalities," Journal of Macroeconomics, Elsevier, vol. 37(C), pages 299-313.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jmacro:v:37:y:2013:i:c:p:299-313
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jmacro.2013.05.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Skill-biased technical change; Heterogeneous agents; Inequality;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • J23 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Demand
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials

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