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Why are similar workers paid differently? The role of social networks

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  • Fontaine Francois

    (CREST-INSEE)

Abstract

We provide a matching model where identical workers are embedded in ex- ante identical social networks. Job arrival rate is endogeneous and wages are bargained. We study the evolution of networks with time and characterize the equilibrium distribution of unemployment rates across networks. We emphasize that wage dispersion arises endogenously as the consequence of the dynamics of networks, firms' strategies and wage bargaining. Contrary to a generally accepted idea, social networks do not necessary induce stickiness in unemployment dynamics. Our endogenous matching technology shows that the effects of networks on the dynamics mostly hinge on search externalities and not on the correlation between statuses. Our endogenous framework allow us to quantify these effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Fontaine Francois, 2004. "Why are similar workers paid differently? The role of social networks," Labor and Demography 0408014, University Library of Munich, Germany, revised 06 Jan 2005.
  • Handle: RePEc:wpa:wuwpla:0408014
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    social networks; wage dispersion; matching; unemployment persistence;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E24 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Employment; Unemployment; Wages; Intergenerational Income Distribution; Aggregate Human Capital; Aggregate Labor Productivity
    • J64 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Unemployment: Models, Duration, Incidence, and Job Search
    • J68 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Public Policy

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