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https://doi.org/10.12759/hsr.44.2019.1.119-135
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Discrimination as a Convention: A Re-Assessment of the Impact of Social Intervention
Diskriminierung als eine Konvention: Eine Neubewertung des Effekts sozialer Intervention
[journal article]
Abstract This article argues that the “standard approach” of the analysis of discrimination cannot easily explain the durability of discriminatory practices, which should “normally” disappear thanks to market forces. We propose an analysis of labor market discrimination using the concept of convention. First... view more
This article argues that the “standard approach” of the analysis of discrimination cannot easily explain the durability of discriminatory practices, which should “normally” disappear thanks to market forces. We propose an analysis of labor market discrimination using the concept of convention. First, our convention-based explanation tries to characterize discrimination as an arbitrary, automatic, conformist, and self-enforcing behavior. Second, using the French institutional approach of economics of convention, we can define discrimination as an illegitimate practice. This implies that, because discrimination is stable in the long run and unfair, legislation and policy, as well as affirmative action, are useful. This new approach to the economic analysis of discrimination also changes the interrelation(s) of markets, firms, and law.... view less
Keywords
social intervention; conformity; discrimination; minority rights; market mechanism; conventionalism; convention; economic theory; labor market
Classification
Labor Market Research
Social Problems
Free Keywords
bad convention; economics of convention
Document language
English
Publication Year
2019
Page/Pages
p. 119-135
Journal
Historical Social Research, 44 (2019) 1
Issue topic
Markets, Organizations, and Law - Perspectives of Convention Theory on Economic Practices and Structures
ISSN
0172-6404
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed