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On the identification of the “middle class”

Author

Listed:
  • Anthony B. Atkinson

    (Nuffield College)

  • Andrea Brandolini

    (Bank of Italy)

Abstract

The paper examines the identification of the “middle class” using data from LIS and LWS. It first considers definitions based purely on income, examining the rationale for different approaches and illustrating the implications for changes over time. It argues that the concept of “class” requires the examination of other dimensions beyond income. The paper considers the role of property and, drawing on the sociological literature, of occupations.

Suggested Citation

  • Anthony B. Atkinson & Andrea Brandolini, 2011. "On the identification of the “middle class”," Working Papers 217, ECINEQ, Society for the Study of Economic Inequality.
    • Handle: RePEc:inq:inqwps:ecineq2011-217
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    File URL: http://www.ecineq.org/milano/WP/ECINEQ2011-217.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    class structure; income distribution;

    JEL classification:

    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • D33 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Factor Income Distribution

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