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On the ambiguous economic freedom–inequality relationship

Author

Listed:
  • Daniel L. Bennett

    (Patrick Henry College)

  • Boris Nikolaev

    (Oxford College of Emory University)

Abstract

Previous research on the relationship between economic freedom and income inequality has produced mixed results. We provide a short survey of this literature, identifying potential causes for this empirical heterogeneity. Next, we replicate the results from two significant studies using six alternative measures of income inequality for an updated dataset of up to 112 countries over the period 1970–2010. Notably, we use the latest release of the Standardized World Income Inequality Dataset, which allows us to account for the uncertainty of the estimated Gini coefficients. We find that the results of previous studies are sensitive to the choice of country sample, time period and/or inequality measure used. We conclude with suggestions for future research in the area.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniel L. Bennett & Boris Nikolaev, 2017. "On the ambiguous economic freedom–inequality relationship," Empirical Economics, Springer, vol. 53(2), pages 717-754, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:empeco:v:53:y:2017:i:2:d:10.1007_s00181-016-1131-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s00181-016-1131-3
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Capitalism; Economic freedom; Income inequality; Institutions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C82 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Macroeconomic Data; Data Access
    • D30 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - General
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • P16 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Capitalist Economies - - - Capitalist Institutions; Welfare State

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