The Effect of Assortative Mating on Wealth Inequality, why do the Rich Choose the Rich?

Arabela Ichim, Mihaela Neculita, Carmen Ghelase and Daniela Ancuta Sarpe
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Arabela Ichim: Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania
Mihaela Neculita: Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania
Carmen Ghelase: Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania
Daniela Ancuta Sarpe: Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania

Economics and Applied Informatics, 2023, issue 2, 134-137

Abstract: This paper unravels the effect of assortative mating on wealth inequality. In light of the reviewed literature, it is concluded that there is a significant effect of assortative mating on wealth inequality, it is mainly driven by similarity in background and similar views on lifestyle, including saving habits. These findings are in line with the matching hypothesis. However, the competition hypothesis of having an inherent interest in a partner with a high socio-economic status cannot be ruled out. Another relevant finding highlights how redistributive policies might enable individuals to cross social boundaries when partnering up and foster social cohesion.

Keywords: assortative mating; wealth inequality; homogamy; matching hypothesis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ddj:fseeai:y:2023:i:2:p:134-137

DOI: 10.35219/eai15840409347

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