Abstract
Individualistic versus structuralist explanations of aggregate-level earnings inequality are contrasted. Their respective predictions are then empirically considered in regression analyses of earnings inequality across 282 metropolitan areas. In general the results do not provide strong support for the structuralist model at least as operationalized in terms of industrially and occupationally discrete segments. The effects of individualistic variables, however, do not provide strong support for human capital theory either, and the results vary substantially depending on which particular measure of inequality is considered. Implications for labor market research and theory are discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 86-107 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | Social Forces |
Volume | 67 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 1988 |