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Scale and The Kuznets Curve versus Cycles:

Thomas I. Palley

Journal of Income Distribution2025https://doi.org/10.25071/1874-6322.40633article
AJG 1ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

This paper presents a theory and model of long-run cycles in income inequality. The model explains the historical pattern of income distribution identified by Kuznets (1955) and Piketty (2014). It breaks with conventional marginal product theory which claims functional income distribution is determined by the technological conditions of production. Instead, it emphasizes the role of socio-political forces that shape and drive fluctuations in the scale and strength of popular political organizations, which then impact distribution. That impact includes assessment and attribution of productivity contributions. The model provides a framework for interpreting the historical evolution of income distribution and inequality, and for reflecting on current conditions and possible future developments. The core message is twofold. First, socio-political developments matter for income distribution. Second, if those developments are cyclical, income distribution will also exhibit cyclicality.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.25071/1874-6322.40633

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@article{thomas2025,
  title        = {{Scale and The Kuznets Curve versus Cycles:}},
  author       = {Thomas I. Palley},
  journal      = {Journal of Income Distribution},
  year         = {2025},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.25071/1874-6322.40633},
}

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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