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Rising Income Inequality During the Great Recession Had No Impact on Subjective Wellbeing in Europe, 2003-2012.

Rising Income Inequality During the Great Recession Had No Impact on Subjective Wellbeing in Europe, 2003-2012.

Authors :
Evans, M. D. R.
Kelley, Jonathan
Kelley, S. M. C.
Kelley, C. G. E.
Source :
Journal of Happiness Studies. Jan2019, Vol. 20 Issue 1, p203-228. 26p. 6 Charts, 3 Graphs.
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

The Great Recession increased income inequality by an average of 6%. We assesses the impact of that on subjective wellbeing (happiness, life satisfaction). Data: European Quality of Life survey, 25 representative national samples at three time points, over 70,000 respondents. Analysis: variance-components multi-level models controlling for GDP per capita (an essential point) and individual-level predictors. Findings: income inequality has no statistically significant impact before, during, or after the Great Recession. Instead (contrary to much previous research) a straightforward individualistic utilitarian-materialist understanding is supported: money does increase wellbeing but inequality itself—the gap between rich and poor—is irrelevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13894978
Volume :
20
Issue :
1
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Journal of Happiness Studies
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
134623009
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-017-9917-3