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Preferences for Wealth Redistribution: The Role of Social Background and Merit

Author

Listed:
  • Elisa Stumpf

    (Friedrich Schiller University Jena)

  • Silke Uebelmesser

    (Friedrich Schiller University Jena, CESifo)

Abstract

This paper investigates preferences for wealth redistribution through a conjoint experiment. Specifically, we explore how support for wealth redistribution depends on the social background of the taxpayer and whether their wealth is perceived as resulting from luck or hard work. Our findings reveal significantly more support for taxing individuals from rich families, an effect that is particularly pronounced among relatively poor participants and those with low trust in official statistics. Attributing wealth to luck rather than effort also increases support for taxation, though this effect is less substantial than the influence of a privileged background. When individuals are both from a wealthy family and being perceived as lucky, the combined effect on support for taxation is only marginally larger than either factor alone.

Suggested Citation

  • Elisa Stumpf & Silke Uebelmesser, 2025. "Preferences for Wealth Redistribution: The Role of Social Background and Merit," Jena Economics Research Papers 2025-008, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena.
    • Handle: RePEc:jrp:jrpwrp:2025-0008
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    File URL: https://oweb.b67.uni-jena.de/Papers/jerp2023/wp_2025_008.pdf
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C90 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - General
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement

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