Asymptotic Income Distribution in the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP): Income Inequality and Darwinian Fitness

Arbeitspapier

In this paper, the relation between income inequality and population growth is analized from a Darwinian perspective. A Markov chain population growth model is presented and estimated using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP). We estimate both population growth rates and steady-state income distribution for males and females. The results are compatible with the traditional age-based population growth models of demography, in so far as these are actually irreducible, positive-recurrent Markov chains. It is concluded that, from the perspective of individuals and family lines, income inequality may improve reproductive fitness of high-income individuals, and foster adaptive reproductive strategies for a given income level.

Object Details

• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Series: SOEPpapers on Multidisciplinary Panel Data Research ; No. 427

Classification and Topics

• Classification: Wirtschaft
• Subject: Steady-state income distribution ; intrinsic growth rates ; Markov chains ; population projection ; reproductive fitness ; Einkommensverteilung ; Bevölkerungsentwicklung ; Fertilität ; Deutschland

Contributors, Places and Time

• Event: Geistige Schöpfung
• (who): Montano, Diego
• Event: Veröffentlichung
• (who): Deutsches Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung (DIW)
• (where): Berlin
• (when): 2011

Further information

• Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/150972
• Last update: 10.03.2025, 11:41 AM CET