Inequality and Growth: Theory and Policy Implications

(Paperback)

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Even minute increases in a country's growth rate can result in dramatic changes in living standards over just one generation. The benefits of growth, however, may not be shared equally. Some may gain less than others, and a fraction of the population may actually be disadvantaged. Recent economic research has found both positive and negative relationships between growth and inequality across nations. The questions raised by these results include- What is the impact on inequality of policies designed to foster growth Does inequality by itself facilitate or detract from economic growth, and does it amplify or diminish policy effectiveness This book provides a forum for economists to examine the theoretical, empirical, and policy issues involved in the relationship between growth and inequality. The aim is to develop a framework for determining the role of public policy in enhancing both growth and equality. The diverse range of topics, examined in both developed and developing countries, includes natural resources, taxation, fertility, redistribution, technological change, transition, labor markets, and education. A theme common to all the essays is the importance of education in reducing inequality and increasing growth.

Reviews

"Eicher and Turnovsky expand the frontier of research on growth and inequality by gathering together this collection of papers from some of the top researchers in the field. It is an intriguing and enlightening read that is sure to push the debate forward." Charles I. Jones, Department of Economics, University of California, Berkeley

Author Bio

Theo S. Eicher is Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Washington. Stephen J. Turnovsky is Professor of Economics at the University of Washington.