It is appropriate to take stock of extant measures of income inequality as they pertain to their utility in cross-national models of political and economic performance. Are some measures more reliable and valid than others? What about data coverage, conceptual mapping of similar indicators,...

In this paper, we assess the effect of globalization on the distribution of income within countries, focussing on the influence of foreign direct investment. We analyze data for 72 countries, 1970-90. We incorporate in our tests the Kuznets (1955) curve, measures of the character of political...

In this paper, we assess the effect of globalization on the distribution of income within countries, focussing on the influence of foreign direct investment. We analyze data for 72 countries, 1970-90. We incorporate in our tests the Kuznets (1955) curve, measures of the character of political...

Some argue that a “good” economy, measured as productivity-enhancing, free market policies, is better than a “just” economy for promoting social harmony. Growth is needed to increase a middle class, but growth may also increase income disparity, creating political instability. We examine...

Some argue that a “good” economy, measured as productivity-enhancing, free market policies, is better than a “just” economy for promoting social harmony. Growth is needed to increase a middle class, but growth may also increase income disparity, creating political instability. We examine...

Some blame free-market capitalism for increasing income inequality, arguing that the richer classes could block access to others for maintaining their privileges. By manipulating the degree of political rights and resources available to others, the rich could reduce opportunities for others....