Should we increase average income, or the poor’s income to reduce infant and child mortality?
ISSN: 0144-3585
Article publication date: 24 June 2020
Issue publication date: 2 February 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This article examines whether increasing the income of the poor – measured as the income of the lowest quintile – is more beneficial in reducing infant and child mortality rates compared with increases in average income. Given the global importance in reducing infant mortality, the value of this research is important to academics, policymakers and practitioners alike.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a sample of 86 countries from 1995–2014 inclusive, our preferred estimation strategy uses an instrumental variable fixed-effects estimator.
Findings
Our results propose that the elasticity of the income of the lowest quintile never exceeds that of average income. Therefore, if reducing infant and child mortality is a key policy goal, then boosting average income may be preferable to raising incomes at the lower end of the distribution.
Originality/value
Given these findings, we open a gateway for new literature to add to this unexplored area of research in the income and health relationship.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
I would like to offer my gratitude to delegates at the Global Development Finance conference in Cape Town and all those associated with handling, reviewing and editing this paper at the Journal of Economic Studies. Their suggestions, dedication and assistance have significantly improved this manuscript.
Citation
Rewilak, J. (2021), "Should we increase average income, or the poor’s income to reduce infant and child mortality?", Journal of Economic Studies, Vol. 48 No. 2, pp. 392-412. https://doi.org/10.1108/JES-03-2020-0107
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited