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English Proficiency and Labor Market Performance: Evidence from the Economics Profession

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Abstract

This paper investigates whether the global spread of the English language provides an inherent advantage to native English speakers. This question is studied within the context of the economics profession, where the impact of being a native English speaker on future publishing success is examined. English speakers may have an advantage since they are writing in their native language, the quality of writing is a crucial determinant of publishing success, and all the top economics journals are published in English. Using a ranking of the world's top 2.5% of economists, this paper confirms that native English speakers are ranked 100 spots higher (better) than similar non-native English speakers. A variety of extensions examine and dispel other potential explanations.

Suggested Citation

  • William W. Olney, 2015. "English Proficiency and Labor Market Performance: Evidence from the Economics Profession," Department of Economics Working Papers 2015-05, Department of Economics, Williams College.
    • Handle: RePEc:wil:wileco:2015-05
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    File URL: https://web.williams.edu/Economics/wp/OlneyEnglishProficiency.pdf
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    Cited by:

    1. is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Hamermesh, Daniel S. & Kosnik, Lea-Rachel, 2022. "Aging in Style: Does How We Write Matter?," IZA Discussion Papers 15739, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    3. Lea‐Rachel Kosnik & Daniel S. Hamermesh, 2024. "Aging in style: Seniority and sentiment in scholarly writing," Southern Economic Journal, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 90(4), pages 1136-1164, April.
    4. Daniel S. Hamermesh, 2018. "Citations in Economics: Measurement, Uses, and Impacts," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 56(1), pages 115-156, March.

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    JEL classification:

    • F60 - International Economics - - Economic Impacts of Globalization - - - General
    • A11 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Role of Economics; Role of Economists

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