Wealth Inequality and Social Mobility: A Simulation-Based Modelling Approach

Xiaoliang Yang () and Peng Zhou
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Xiaoliang Yang: Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China

No E2022/3, Cardiff Economics Working Papers from Cardiff University, Cardiff Business School, Economics Section

Abstract: We design a series of simulation-based thought experiments to deductively evaluate the causal effects of various factors on wealth inequality (the distribution) and social mobility (dynamics of the distribution). We find that uncertainty per se can lead to a natural degree of inequality and returns-related factors contribute more than earnings-related factors. Based on these identified factors, we construct an empirical, hybrid agent-based model to match the observed wealth inequality measures of the G7 countries and China. The estimated model can generate a power-law wealth distribution for the rich and a positively sloped intra-generational Great Gatsby curve. We also demonstrate how this hybrid model can be extended to a wide range of questions such as redistributive effects of tax and finance.

Keywords: Wealth Inequality; Social Mobility; Agent-Based Model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D31 E21 J60 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 45 pages
Date: 2022-02
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-cmp, nep-cna, nep-hme and nep-mac
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Journal Article: Wealth inequality and social mobility: A simulation-based modelling approach (2022)
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