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Affirmative Action in Hierarchies

Author

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  • Suzanne Scotchmer

    (University of California, Berkeley & NBER)

Abstract

There is considerable evidence that males are more prone to take risks than females. This difference has implications for rates of promotion in hierarchies where promotion is based on random signals of ability. I explore the promotion consequences of three types of performance standards: gender-blind standards, standards designed to promote agents of equal ability on average, and standards designed to promote equal numbers of both genders. These three objectives lead to different promotion standards, which highlights among other things that the goal of affirmative action is not well defined. Lower promotion standards for females can be necessary to ensure either equal abilities or equal numbers in the promoted populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Suzanne Scotchmer, 2003. "Affirmative Action in Hierarchies," Industrial Organization 0303005, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:wpa:wuwpio:0303005
    Note: 24 pages, Acrobat .pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Dino Falaschetti, 2012. "A Sex Difference in Risk Taking and Promotions in Hierarchies: Evidence from Females in Legislatures," Journal of Law and Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 55(3), pages 477-502.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J7 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination

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