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The dynamics of public opinion towards inequality in Malaysia

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  • Sharon G.M. Koh
  • Grace H.Y. Lee
  • Eduard J. Bomhoff

Abstract

Globally income inequality is on the rise. With growing income inequality, market outcomes are no longer Pareto efficient as it is benefiting only a small group of individuals. Working with the World Values Survey data, this paper aims to provide an additional perspective on income inequality in Malaysia. We find evidence that individuals' underlying beliefs, ideologies and education level are important determinants of their attitudes toward income distribution. In addition, the paper concludes that individuals' preference for income distribution is significantly shaped by the experiences and economic condition in their local communities. States that are poorer and more ethnically diverse prefer more equal income.

Suggested Citation

  • Sharon G.M. Koh & Grace H.Y. Lee & Eduard J. Bomhoff, 2016. "The dynamics of public opinion towards inequality in Malaysia," Journal of the Asia Pacific Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 21(4), pages 578-598, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rjapxx:v:21:y:2016:i:4:p:578-598
    DOI: 10.1080/13547860.2016.1154201
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    Cited by:

    1. Howarth, David & Marteau, Theresa M. & Coutts, Adam P. & Huppert, Julian L. & Pinto, Pedro Ramos, 2019. "What do the British public think of inequality in health, wealth, and power?," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 222(C), pages 198-206.
    2. Roll, Oliver & Loh, Patrick, 2019. "Dynamic Pricing in der Kundenwahrnehmung," Marketing Review St.Gallen, Universität St.Gallen, Institut für Marketing und Customer Insight, vol. 36(5), pages 32-39.
    3. Koh, Sharon G. M. & Lee, Grace H. Y. & Siah, Audrey K. L., 2022. "The Resurgence of Income Inequality in Asia-Pacific: The Role of Trade Openness, Educational Attainment and Institutional Quality," Jurnal Ekonomi Malaysia, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, vol. 56(3), pages 11-27.

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