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Does money bring aspirations? Evidence from China

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  • Yue Yu
  • Chengkui Liu
  • Hao Wang
  • Xiaodan Lin

Abstract

Based on a mathematical model and empirical test, this paper explores the incentive of income for aspirations and its channels, forging links between theory and data. Results present evidence that income significantly inspires one's aspirations, and all conclusions still hold after overcoming the interference of potential endogenous issues. In terms of channels, the “aspirations window” (a set of similar perceivable individuals) and “bandwidth load” (the mental space to think, process problems, and come up with solutions) play the mediating role in the stimulation of money; that is, low incomes will make aspirations window narrower and bandwidth load heavier, which is a momentous force behind one's aspirations failure. This paper also enlightens income distribution and the construction of internal motivation mechanisms.

Suggested Citation

  • Yue Yu & Chengkui Liu & Hao Wang & Xiaodan Lin, 2024. "Does money bring aspirations? Evidence from China," Review of Development Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 28(2), pages 391-405, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:rdevec:v:28:y:2024:i:2:p:391-405
    DOI: 10.1111/rode.13065
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    References listed on IDEAS

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