Journal of Labor Economics
journal article
Household Equivalence Scales: Theory versus Policy?
Julie A. Nelson
Journal of Labor Economics
Vol. 11, No. 3 (Jul., 1993), pp. 471-493 (23 pages)
Published By: The University of Chicago Press
Journal of Labor Economics
https://www.jstor.org/stable/2535082
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Abstract

Researchers agree that household equivalence scales are intended to measure the variation in income needed to bring households of different composition to the same welfare level. Researchers do not agree, however, about how the term "household welfare" is to be defined. This article traces the historical and philosophical development of three distinct definitions. When the conceptual bases of several popular methods for the estimation of equivalence scales are explored, it becomes clear that advances in theoretical rigor have not always worked to bring the literature closer to answering questions of policy concern.

Journal Information

Current issues are now on the Chicago Journals website. Read the latest issue.Since 1983, the Journal of Labor Economics (JOLE) has presented international research on issues affecting social and private behavior, and the economy. JOLE’s contributors investigate various aspects of labor economics, including supply and demand of labor services, personnel economics, distribution of income, unions and collective bargaining, applied and policy issues in labor economics, and labor markets and demographics.

Publisher Information

Since its origins in 1890 as one of the three main divisions of the University of Chicago, The University of Chicago Press has embraced as its mission the obligation to disseminate scholarship of the highest standard and to publish serious works that promote education, foster public understanding, and enrich cultural life. Today, the Journals Division publishes more than 70 journals and hardcover serials, in a wide range of academic disciplines, including the social sciences, the humanities, education, the biological and medical sciences, and the physical sciences.

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Journal of Labor Economics © 1993 The University of Chicago Press