The Labour Supply Curve: A Pluralist Approach to Investigate its Measurements

Abstract

The neoclassical theory of labour supply cannot unambiguously explain the decision of highly-skilled high-wage male workers to work longer and harder than their counterparts in the 1980s. We investigate the labour supply elasticities of these workers, over time, and across countries, within a ceteris paribus condition. The estimates reveal a shift rather than a movement along the supply curve. We find that ambiguities are due to the absence, in the theory, of a clear distinction between a change in consumption that is partly due to changes in the wage rate and partly due to changes in purchasing power. We apply a new pluralist approach to the standard income-leisure choice framework and provide for a more systematic and consistent method of measuring variations in labour supply, with policy implications.

Physical Activity of Working-Age People in View of Their Income Status

“…On the other hand, the impact of high income on pursuing leisure physical activity is also significant. This is related to the so-called backward-bending labor supply curve which demonstrates that higher wages actually entice people to work less and consume more leisure [ 33 ]. Some individuals with high incomes experience the need to have more leisure.…”

Physical Activity and Associated Factors Among Patients Attending Hypertension Clinics in Mbarara City, Southwestern Uganda

“…It was also found that, with high education levels, one can easily obtain information, practice counselling, organise and carry out physical activities as per their schedule (24,30). Higher levels of education have also been associated with better economic outcomes (31), which consequently influences physical activity positively (32). Contrasting results where participants with low levels of education were more physically active, have been reported.…”