Gender inequality as a barrier to economic growth: a review of the theoretical literature

Manuel Santos Silva and Stephan Klasen

Review of Economics of the Household, 2021, vol. 19, issue 3, No 1, 614 pages

Abstract: Abstract In this article, we survey the theoretical literature investigating the role of gender inequality in economic development. The vast majority of theories reviewed argue that gender inequality is a barrier to development, particularly over the long run. Among the many plausible mechanisms through which inequality between men and women affects the aggregate economy, the role of women for fertility decisions and human capital investments is particularly emphasized in the literature. Yet, we believe the body of theories could be expanded in several directions.

Keywords: Gender equality; Economic growth; Fertility; Human capital; Comparative development (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: E20 J13 J16 J24 O11 O41 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (17)

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Working Paper: Gender Inequality as a Barrier to Economic Growth: a Review of the Theoretical Literature (2018)
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DOI: 10.1007/s11150-020-09535-6

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