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Attractiveness and preferences for redistribution in non-Western countries

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  • Jordahl, Henrik
  • Mavisakalyan, Astghik
  • Poutvaara, Panu

Abstract

This paper examines the link between physical attractiveness and individual support for income redistribution in a non-Western context. Using nationally representative survey data from the South Caucasus, we find that more attractive individuals are less supportive of redistribution, consistent with findings from Western settings. However, the negative correlation is only present among women. This gender pattern contrasts with previous studies, which have predominantly found a stronger correlation among men. Consequently, gender-specific relationships between attractiveness and redistributive preferences seem to be better explained by cultural influences than by universal claims grounded in evolutionary psychology.

Suggested Citation

  • Jordahl, Henrik & Mavisakalyan, Astghik & Poutvaara, Panu, 2025. "Attractiveness and preferences for redistribution in non-Western countries," European Journal of Political Economy, Elsevier, vol. 90(PB).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:poleco:v:90:y:2025:i:pb:s0176268025001326
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpoleco.2025.102772
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    1. Roman Horvath & Matej Korinek & Laurent Weill, 2026. "Does Finance Change the Taste for Redistribution?," Working Papers IES 2026/10, Charles University Prague, Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of Economic Studies, revised Jun 2026.

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    JEL classification:

    • D79 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Other
    • H20 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - General
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination

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