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On the Measurement of Social Heterogeneity

Author

Listed:
  • Klaus Desmet
  • Ignacio Ortuño-Ortín
  • Romain Wacziarg

Abstract

We discuss a wide range of measures of social heterogeneity, both theoretically and empirically. In our framework, individuals who differ from each other either in terms of their identity traits or of their cultural values experience antagonism toward each other. Depending on the type of interpersonal differences that may give rise to social antagonism, we derive a wide range of microfounded measures of social heterogeneity, many of which have been frequently used in the social sciences to characterize the causes and effects of socially relevant differences between individuals. Using these measures, we explore the worldwide landscape of social heterogeneity. We end our discussion with a consideration of the social, political and economic effects of these various metrics of heterogeneity.

Suggested Citation

  • Klaus Desmet & Ignacio Ortuño-Ortín & Romain Wacziarg, 2025. "On the Measurement of Social Heterogeneity," NBER Working Papers 33896, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:33896
    Note: POL
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    JEL classification:

    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics
    • P0 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - General
    • Z1 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics

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