Unexplored Dimensions of Discrimination
October 2015
Edited by Tito Boeri, Eleonora Patacchini and Giovanni Peri
Oxford University Press
Summary
Using newly collected and existing data and modern econometric approaches, this book analyses the gender wage gap as well as less explored dimensions of discrimination such as religion, sexual orientation, and physical appearance. Part One focuses on gender. Using a newly collected database for Italy, it analyses the relevance of transition from school to work, and in particular the choice of college major, in determining the gender earning gap. It also analyses the role of family and of discrimination on the job as a potential source of this gap, using additional data from Spain and the US. Part Two analyses different forms of discrimination towards individuals in the labor market. In particular, it examines the potential for discrimination of sexual orientation, religion, and physical appearance and weight. The analysis is conducted by means of a survey of the existing literature and by an empirical analysis, using European data as well as Italian data collected through an experimental design.
Relevant contributions:
- New evidence on the disadvantage of women in labor markets, focus on the highly educated
- Analysis of the effects of discrimination based on religion, sexual orientation, and physical appearance
- Discussion of the impact of existing policies to reduce discrimination
- New data on school-labor market connection and on discrimination in Italy
See also the LSE Book review!
