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Which Wage Distributions are Consistent with Statistical Discrimination?

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  • Deb, Rahul
  • Renou, Ludovic

Abstract

We derive a non-parametric test for statistical discrimination that can be applied to cross-sectional wage data. Specifically, we show that the wage distributions for two groups (with identical observable characteristics) are consistent with a general reduced-form model of statistical discrimination if, and only if, neither wage distribution first-order stochastically dominates the other. Our model allows us to interpret a rejection of this condition as evidence of bias.

Suggested Citation

  • Deb, Rahul & Renou, Ludovic, 2022. "Which Wage Distributions are Consistent with Statistical Discrimination?," CEPR Discussion Papers 17676, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:17676
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    1. Ma, Mingye & Riener, Gerhard & Xu, Youzong, 2024. "Evaluating Yourself and Your Peers," IZA Discussion Papers 17267, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • D04 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Policy: Formulation; Implementation; Evaluation
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J70 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - General

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