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On the comparison of group inequalities using subjective data

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  • Fontaine, Xavier
  • Haywood, Luke

Abstract

Subjective data offer a simple way of comparing outcomes across populations. However, reporting behavior may differ across groups. We investigate the validity of studies comparing inequality based on such data. Comparing group inequalities appears substantially more problematic than comparing averages.

Suggested Citation

  • Fontaine, Xavier & Haywood, Luke, 2018. "On the comparison of group inequalities using subjective data," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 163(C), pages 17-21.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:163:y:2018:i:c:p:17-21
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2017.11.001
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    1. Arie Kapteyn & James P. Smith & Arthur Van Soest, 2013. "Are A mericans Really Less Happy with Their Incomes?," Review of Income and Wealth, International Association for Research in Income and Wealth, vol. 59(1), pages 44-65, March.
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    7. Viola Angelini & Danilo Cavapozzi & Luca Corazzini & Omar Paccagnella, 2014. "Do Danes and Italians Rate Life Satisfaction in the Same Way? Using Vignettes to Correct for Individual-Specific Scale Biases," Oxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics, Department of Economics, University of Oxford, vol. 76(5), pages 643-666, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Kaiser, Caspar, 2022. "Using memories to assess the intrapersonal comparability of wellbeing reports," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 193(C), pages 410-442.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Differences in reporting; Inequality; Subjective data;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I14 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Inequality
    • I32 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Measurement and Analysis of Poverty
    • C83 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Survey Methods; Sampling Methods

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