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Empirical Economic Bulletin, An Undergraduate Journal

Abstract

This paper investigates and presents the impact of income inequality upon general levels of happiness. The study will examine the influence of the income gap upon life satisfaction. Incorporating information from OECD databanks and the World Bank into a standard model in happiness studies, we will examine the effect on nations measured Happy Life Years (HLY). After careful examination this study provides a conclusion that reinforces past studies. Income inequality has a consistent significant and negative impact on subjective well-being and happiness levels. The study contributes to the inequality happiness literature, by examining the effects of inequality on happiness amongst a panel of countries.

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