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Macintyre AK, Shipton D, Sarica S, Scobie G, Craig N, McCartney G. Assessing the effects of population-level political, economic and social exposures, interventions and policies on inclusive economy outcomes for health equity in high-income countries: a systematic review of reviews. Syst Rev 2024; 13:58. [PMID: 38331910 PMCID: PMC10851517 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02429-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A fairer economy is increasingly recognised as crucial for tackling widening social, economic and health inequalities within society. However, which actions have been evaluated for their impact on inclusive economy outcomes is yet unknown. OBJECTIVE Identify the effects of political, economic and social exposures, interventions and policies on inclusive economy (IE) outcomes in high-income countries, by systematically reviewing the review-level evidence. METHODS We conducted a review of reviews; searching databases (May 2020) EconLit, Web of Science, Sociological Abstracts, ASSIA, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, Public Health Database, Embase and MEDLINE; and registries PROSPERO, Campbell Collaboration and EPPI Centre (February 2021) and grey literature (August/September 2020). We aimed to identify reviews which examined social, political and/or economic exposures, interventions and policies in relation to two IE outcome domains: (i) equitable distribution of the benefits of the economy and (ii) equitable access to the resources needed to participate in the economy. Reviews had to include primary studies which compared IE outcomes within or between groups. Quality was assessed using a modified version of AMSTAR-2 and data synthesised informed by SWiM principles. RESULTS We identified 19 reviews for inclusion, most of which were low quality, as was the underlying primary evidence. Most reviews (n = 14) had outcomes relating to the benefits of the economy (rather than access to resources) and examined a limited set of interventions, primarily active labour market programmes and social security. There was limited high-quality review evidence to draw upon to identify effects on IE outcomes. Most reviews focused on disadvantaged groups and did not consider equity impacts. CONCLUSIONS Review-level evidence is sparse and focuses on 'corrective' approaches. Future reviews should examine a diverse set of 'upstream' actions intended to be inclusive 'by design' and consider a wider range of outcomes, with particular attention to socioeconomic inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Macintyre
- Place and Wellbeing, Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB, UK.
| | - Deborah Shipton
- Place and Wellbeing, Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB, UK
| | - Shifa Sarica
- Place and Wellbeing, Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB, UK
| | - Graeme Scobie
- Place and Wellbeing, Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB, UK
| | - Neil Craig
- Place and Wellbeing, Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, EH12 9EB, UK
| | - Gerry McCartney
- School of Social & Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Barlow CF, Daniel L, Bentley R, Baker E. Cold housing environments: defining the problem for an appropriate policy response. J Public Health Policy 2023; 44:370-385. [PMID: 37516807 PMCID: PMC10484804 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-023-00431-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Researchers across disciplines are increasing attention to cold housing environments. Public health, environmental and social sciences, architecture, and engineering each define and measure cold housing environments differently. Lack of standardisation hinders our ability to combine evidence, determine prevalence, understand who is most at risk--and to formulate policy responses. We conducted a systematic, cross-disciplinary review of literature to document the measures used. We examined benefits and limitations of each approach and propose a conceptualisation of cold housing: where temperature is too low to support optimal health and wellbeing of inhabitants, measured using one or a combination of economic, 'objective', or subjective approaches. More accurate data on home temperatures for all population groups, combined with an understanding of factors leading to cold homes, will enable appropriate policy response to reduce adverse health effects and costs. Policies targeting better building standards and energy subsidies both improve temperature conditions in housing environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Faye Barlow
- The Australian Centre for Housing Research, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005 Australia
| | - Lyrian Daniel
- UniSA Creative, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000 Australia
| | - Rebecca Bentley
- The Centre for Health Policy, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Emma Baker
- The Australian Centre for Housing Research, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005 Australia
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Reivan-Ortiz GG, Cong PT, Wong WK, Ali A, Thu HTT, Akhter S. Role of geopolitical risk, currency fluctuation, and economic policy on tourist arrivals: temporal analysis of BRICS economies. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27736-1. [PMID: 37269525 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27736-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The tourism industry is vulnerable to a range of economic and political factors, which can have both short-term and long-term impacts on tourist arrivals. The study aims to investigate the temporal dynamics of these factors and their impact on tourist arrivals. The method employed is a panel data regression analysis, using data from BRICS economies over a period of 1980-2020. The dependent variable is the number of tourist arrivals, while the independent variables are geopolitical risk, currency fluctuation, and economic policy. Control variables such as GDP, exchange rate, and distance to major tourist destinations are also included. The results show that geopolitical risk and currency fluctuation have a significant negative impact on tourist arrivals, while economic policy has a positive impact. The study also finds that the impact of geopolitical risk is stronger in the short term, while the impact of economic policy is stronger in the long term. Additionally, the study shows that the effects of these factors on tourist arrivals vary across BRICS countries. The policy implications of this study suggest that BRICS economies need to develop proactive economic policies that promote stability and encourage investment in the tourism industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geovanny Genaro Reivan-Ortiz
- Laboratory of Basic Psychology, Behavioral Analysis and Programmatic Development (PAD-LAB), Catholic University of Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Phan The Cong
- Faculty of Economics, Thuongmai University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Wing-Keung Wong
- Department of Finance, Fintech & Blockchain Research Center, and Big Data Research Center, Asia University, 41354, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, 40447, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Economics and Finance, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anis Ali
- Department of Management, College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Huong Tran Thi Thu
- Faculty of Economics and International Business, Thuongmai University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Shamim Akhter
- Department of English, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Malaysia
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4
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Patterson AC. Is Economic Growth Good for Population Health? A Critical Review. Can Stud Popul 2023; 50:1. [PMID: 36938118 PMCID: PMC10009865 DOI: 10.1007/s42650-023-00072-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
A large multidisciplinary literature discusses the relationship between economic growth and population health. The idea that economic growth is good for societies has inspired extensive academic debate, but conclusions have been mixed. To help shed light on the subject, this paper focuses on opportunities for consensus in this large literature. Much scholarship finds that the health-growth relationship varies according to (1) which aspect of "health" is under consideration, (2) shape (e.g., positive linear or logarithmic), (3) issues of timing (e.g., growth over the short or long term), (4) a focus on health inequalities as opposed to population averages, and (5) multivariable relationships with additional factors. After reflecting upon these findings, I propose that economic growth promotes health in some respects, for some countries, and in conjunction with other life-supporting priorities, but does not by itself improve population health generally speaking. I then argue there is already wide, interdisciplinary consensus to support this stance. Moreover, policies focusing exclusively on economic growth threaten harm to both population health and growth, which is to say that political dynamics are also implicated. Yet multivariable approaches can help clarify the bigger picture of how growth relates to health. For moving this literature forward, the best opportunities may involve the simultaneous analysis of multiple factors. The recognition of consensus around these issues would be welcome, and timely. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42650-023-00072-y.
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Rath AA, Lau EH, Schooling CM. The impact of the minimum wage on suicide rates in Hong Kong. Soc Sci Med 2022; 314:115236. [PMID: 36308889 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Increases in minimum wages have been associated with reductions in suicide rates in the United States, but little evidence is available for Asia where social and contextual factors, as well as drivers of suicide, may be different. We investigated the impact of the introduction of the minimum wage in Hong Kong in May 2011 on suicide rates using an interrupted time series design for the period January 2006 to December 2016. We investigated both immediate and gradual changes in monthly suicide rates after the introduction of the minimum wage taking into account secular trends. We conducted stratified analyses by age and gender. In total 9396 suicides were recorded in Hong Kong during the 11-year study period. Introduction of the minimum wage was associated with an immediate decrease of 13.0% in the monthly suicide rate (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.4%-19.9%, P = 0.001). There was an immediate decrease of 15.8% in older working aged (25-64 years) men (95% CI: 4.2%-25.9%, P = 0.009). Point estimates of immediate effect for other subgroups were also in a negative direction, but were not statistically significant. There was no evidence of a gradual effect on suicide rates at the population level or by subgroup other than a small increase in younger working aged men. We estimate that 633 suicides were prevented by the minimum wage legislation for the period from May 2011 to December 2016, the majority in older working aged men. Our results provide new evidence that, similar to findings in Western settings, minimum wages may help to reduce suicide in Asia, particularly for working age men. Our study highlights the importance of examining the health impacts of government economic policy and suggests minimum wages may provide policy makers with an upstream population-based strategy to reduce suicide rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail A Rath
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (AAR, EHYL and CMS), CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, United States.
| | - Eric Hy Lau
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (AAR, EHYL and CMS), CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, United States
| | - C Mary Schooling
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (AAR, EHYL and CMS), CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, United States
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Leriou E. Understanding and Measuring Child Well-being in the Region of Attica, Greece: Round four. Child Indic Res 2022; 15:1967-2011. [PMID: 36035773 PMCID: PMC9399976 DOI: 10.1007/s12187-022-09957-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to present the results of implementing a new, multi-dimensional and cumulative tool that records the well-being of children in the 1st semester of the school year 2020-2021, which constitutes the fourth round of an ongoing research. The tool was implemented in Attica through questionnaires circulated in twenty-five schools and three support centers for children and families under the organization, "The Smile of the Child" (twenty-eight bodies in total). The total number of children who participated in the sample was 1,114, belonging to three distinct school categories: the 6th grade of elementary school (10-11 years old), the 3rd grade of junior high (13-14 years old), and the 3rd grade of high school (16-17 years old). The results, mapped out in seven clusters, reveal evident concerns over nutrition and the moral education of students. In addition, the results indicate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of children and reveal with regard to national policy and legislation framework that the status of welfare state in Greece is ineffective and problematic. The theoretical and methodological framework of the study was confirmed through a multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and a principal component analysis (PCA).The outputs of MCA reflect and confirm the good effect of "The Smile of the Child" for children in need. Finally, an action plan including the creation of policies based on public finance and fuzzy logic was suggested, the most important being the necessity of the establishment of a new Ministry for the protection of child well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Leriou
- Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, Athens, Greece
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Cincotti S, Raberto M, Teglio A. Why do we need agent-based macroeconomics? Rev Evol Polit Econ 2022; 3:5-29. [PMID: 38624911 PMCID: PMC8962940 DOI: 10.1007/s43253-022-00071-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We are entering the third decade of the twenty-first century with profound uncertainties and crucial challenges for the world economy. Phenomena like climate change, digital transformation, migration, demographic changes, and the ongoing COVID pandemic need to be understood and promptly addressed. We argue that the agent-based approach in economics is well suited to tackle these topics, because of its capacity to integrate the "micro" and "macro" dimensions by modelling the network of interactions among heterogeneous economic agents and their aggregate outcomes. This paper explains why the agent-based methodology is needed to overcome the limitations of the neoclassical approach in economics, which has not been able to properly address those challenges. To do so, the paper retraces the main stages of the scientific evolution in a general historical and epistemological perspective, showing how the paradigm of reductionism, which led to extraordinary advances after the scientific revolution of the seventeenth century, is less effective when addressing the main challenges ahead. On the other hand, the sciences of chaos theory and complex systems can provide the economic discipline with more suitable instruments to face those challenges. Finally, the paper briefly presents the contributions of the special issue, which use applications of agent-based models to study the main problems of our times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvano Cincotti
- DIME, University of Genova, Via Opera Pia 15, Genova, 16145 Italy
| | - Marco Raberto
- DIME, University of Genova, Via Opera Pia 15, Genova, 16145 Italy
| | - Andrea Teglio
- Department of Economics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Cannaregio 873, Venezia, 30121 State Italy
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8
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Abstract
Rates of mental illness have increased dramatically over the past 15 years in the United States [Products-Data Briefs-Number 283-August 2017. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db283.htm . Published August 15, 2017]. Additionally, life expectancy has fallen over the past several years due to increases in death from suicide, opioid overdose, and alcoholic liver cirrhosis as reported by Case and Deaton [Deaths of despair and the future of capitalism. Princeton University Press, 2020]. Over the last decade some have questioned whether these changes are due to neoliberal capitalist policies and ideologies. Neoliberal capitalism incorporates theories of eliminating all restrictions on the market and decreasing government assistance programs as reported by Harvey [A brief history of neoliberalism, Oxford University Press, 2005]. Since then these policies have led to income inequality, disempowerment of workers, outsourcing of manufacturing jobs, inadequate social services, mass incarceration and an expensive and ineffective healthcare system as reported by Case and Deaton [Deaths of despair and the future of capitalism. Princeton University Press, 2020] and Nkansah-Amankra et al. [International Journal of Health Services 43(2):217-240, 2013]. Studies have shown that the consequences of these policies and ideologies likely have a role in increasing rates of mental illness. This paper will discuss how these factors increase mental distress and postulate ways that mental health professionals can advocate for change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zeira
- University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Residency Psychiatry Program, 701 W Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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9
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Abstract
Rates of mental illness have increased dramatically over the past 15 years in the United States [Products-Data Briefs-Number 283-August 2017. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db283.htm . Published August 15, 2017]. Additionally, life expectancy has fallen over the past several years due to increases in death from suicide, opioid overdose, and alcoholic liver cirrhosis as reported by Case and Deaton [Deaths of despair and the future of capitalism. Princeton University Press, 2020]. Over the last decade some have questioned whether these changes are due to neoliberal capitalist policies and ideologies. Neoliberal capitalism incorporates theories of eliminating all restrictions on the market and decreasing government assistance programs as reported by Harvey [A brief history of neoliberalism, Oxford University Press, 2005]. Since then these policies have led to income inequality, disempowerment of workers, outsourcing of manufacturing jobs, inadequate social services, mass incarceration and an expensive and ineffective healthcare system as reported by Case and Deaton [Deaths of despair and the future of capitalism. Princeton University Press, 2020] and Nkansah-Amankra et al. [International Journal of Health Services 43(2):217-240, 2013]. Studies have shown that the consequences of these policies and ideologies likely have a role in increasing rates of mental illness. This paper will discuss how these factors increase mental distress and postulate ways that mental health professionals can advocate for change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zeira
- University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt Residency Psychiatry Program, 701 W Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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10
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Morgan ER, Hill HD, Mooney SJ, Rivara FP, Rowhani-Rahbar A. State earned income tax credits and depression and alcohol misuse among women with children. Prev Med Rep 2022; 26:101695. [PMID: 35096518 PMCID: PMC8783139 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
About 30% of single mothers in the US live at or below the poverty line. Poverty is associated with higher risk of depression and substance use. We investigated associations between state earned income tax credit (EITC) policies and reported depressive symptoms and alcohol misuse among birthing parents who responded to Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey spanning 1990-2017. Nearly half of birthing parents reported no more than a high school education (45.4%; 95% CI: 45.3%-45.6%). An estimated 28.5% of birthing parents reported binge drinking in the three months prior to conception (95% CI: 28.3-28.8%). Among birthing parents, each 10 percentage-point increase in the generosity of state EITC relative to the federal EITC was associated with a lower prevalence of binge drinking (prevalence ratio = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.93-0.99) prior to conception. This association was more pronounced among birthing parents with no more than high school education (prevalence ratio = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.88-0.97). There was no association between state EITC and number of reported depressive symptoms prior to conception or after birth, except among those with lower educational attainment (prevalence ratio = 0.94; 95% CI: 0.89-0.99). Anti-poverty policies such as EITC may reduce the burden of alcohol misuse, especially among people with children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin R. Morgan
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Corresponding author at: University of Washington, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Box 351619, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| | - Heather D. Hill
- Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stephen J. Mooney
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Frederick P. Rivara
- Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ali Rowhani-Rahbar
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Gevorkyan AV. Diaspora and Economic Development: A Systemic View. Eur J Dev Res 2021; 34:1522-1541. [PMID: 34257480 PMCID: PMC8264962 DOI: 10.1057/s41287-021-00432-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Recent attempts to generalize isolated successes of expatriate entrepreneurial networks offer limited insight into the more systemic questions on the role of diasporas in sustainable development of small economies. Drawing on experience of post-socialist transition and merging multidisciplinary perspectives, this paper advances a constructive critique to the conventional views. A historically multilayered socioeconomic construct, diaspora is in fact heterogeneous, often, lacking a unified stance and as such likely diminishing the relevance of the simplified first-mover business case study effect in development. Informed by an original survey, this paper proposes a new diaspora driven development framework of analysis. Any successful engagement of a diaspora with its homeland is a function of sustained interaction between the two entities. In the absence of transparent engagement infrastructure, diaspora's links with a developing economy are short-lived and, usually, sector, event, or location specific. This analysis adds to the literature on the common good dimension in development where individual well-being is a systemic component of a larger outcome rather than the final aim. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1057/s41287-021-00432-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandr V. Gevorkyan
- The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439 USA
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Shipton D, McCartney G, McMaster R. Population health post-pandemic: critiquing the economic approach to recovery. Public Health Pract (Oxf) 2021; 2:100098. [PMID: 33686382 PMCID: PMC7923851 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2021.100098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed that the economic crisis is inseparable from the health and inequalities crisis. This commentary identifies the key overarching economic decisions that governments will make that are likely have a larger impact on the health of nations than the direct impact of COVID-19 itself. We present these economic decisions to a health audience. The public health profession will need to develop opinions on these key economic decisions if we are to shape the environment that has such a large impact on the work we do.
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Edenhofer O, Franks M, Kalkuhl M. Pigou in the 21st Century: a tribute on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the publication of The Economics of Welfare. Int Tax Public Financ 2021; 28:1090-1121. [PMID: 33495672 PMCID: PMC7814863 DOI: 10.1007/s10797-020-09653-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The year 2020 marks the centennial of the publication of Arthur Cecil Pigou's magnum opus The Economics of Welfare. Pigou's pricing principles have had an enduring influence on the academic debate, with a widespread consensus having emerged among economists that Pigouvian taxes or subsidies are theoretically desirable, but politically infeasible. In this article, we revisit Pigou's contribution and argue that this consensus is somewhat spurious, particularly in two ways: (1) Economists are too quick to ignore the theoretical problems and subtleties that Pigouvian pricing still faces; (2) The wholesale skepticism concerning the political viability of Pigouvian pricing is at odds with its recent practical achievements. These two points are made by, first, outlining the theoretical and political challenges that include uncertainty about the social cost of carbon, the unclear relationship between the cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness approaches, distributional concerns, fragmented ministerial responsibilities, an unstable tax base, commitment problems, lack of acceptance and trust between government and citizens as well as incomplete international cooperation. Secondly, we discuss the recent political success of Pigouvian pricing, as evidenced by the German government's 2019 climate policy reform and the EU's Green Deal. We conclude by presenting a research agenda for addressing the remaining barriers that need to be overcome to make Pigouvian pricing a common political practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ottmar Edenhofer
- Mercator Research Institute On Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC), Torgauer Str. 12-15, 10829 Berlin, Germany
- Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17, Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegraphenberg A 31, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Max Franks
- Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17, Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegraphenberg A 31, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Matthias Kalkuhl
- Mercator Research Institute On Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC), Torgauer Str. 12-15, 10829 Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences, University of Potsdam, August-Bebel-Straße 89, 14482 Potsdam, Germany
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Ruggeri K, Garcia-Garzon E, Maguire Á, Matz S, Huppert FA. Well-being is more than happiness and life satisfaction: a multidimensional analysis of 21 countries. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:192. [PMID: 32560725 PMCID: PMC7304199 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01423-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent trends on measurement of well-being have elevated the scientific standards and rigor associated with approaches for national and international comparisons of well-being. One major theme in this has been the shift toward multidimensional approaches over reliance on traditional metrics such as single measures (e.g. happiness, life satisfaction) or economic proxies (e.g. GDP). Methods To produce a cohesive, multidimensional measure of well-being useful for providing meaningful insights for policy, we use data from 2006 and 2012 from the European Social Survey (ESS) to analyze well-being for 21 countries, involving approximately 40,000 individuals for each year. We refer collectively to the items used in the survey as multidimensional psychological well-being (MPWB). Results The ten dimensions assessed are used to compute a single value standardized to the population, which supports broad assessment and comparison. It also increases the possibility of exploring individual dimensions of well-being useful for targeting interventions. Insights demonstrate what may be masked when limiting to single dimensions, which can create a failure to identify levers for policy interventions. Conclusions We conclude that both the composite score and individual dimensions from this approach constitute valuable levels of analyses for exploring appropriate policies to protect and improve well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Ruggeri
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, USA. .,Policy Research Group, Centre for Business Research, Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Felicia A Huppert
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Well-being Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Naik Y, Baker P, Ismail SA, Tillmann T, Bash K, Quantz D, Hillier-Brown F, Jayatunga W, Kelly G, Black M, Gopfert A, Roderick P, Barr B, Bambra C. Going upstream - an umbrella review of the macroeconomic determinants of health and health inequalities. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1678. [PMID: 31842835 PMCID: PMC6915896 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7895-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The social determinants of health have been widely recognised yet there remains a lack of clarity regarding what constitute the macro-economic determinants of health and what can be done to address them. An umbrella review of systematic reviews was conducted to identify the evidence for the health and health inequalities impact of population level macroeconomic factors, strategies, policies and interventions. METHODS Nine databases were searched for systematic reviews meeting the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE) criteria using a novel conceptual framework. Studies were assessed for quality using a standardised instrument and a narrative overview of the findings is presented. RESULTS The review found a large (n = 62) but low quality systematic review-level evidence base. The results indicated that action to promote employment and improve working conditions can help improve health and reduce gender-based health inequalities. Evidence suggests that market regulation of tobacco, alcohol and food is likely to be effective at improving health and reducing inequalities in health including strong taxation, or restriction of advertising and availability. Privatisation of utilities and alcohol sectors, income inequality, and economic crises are likely to increase health inequalities. Left of centre governments and welfare state generosity may have a positive health impact, but evidence on specific welfare interventions is mixed. Trade and trade policies were found to have a mixed effect. There were no systematic reviews of the health impact of monetary policy or of large economic institutions such as central banks and regulatory organisations. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide a simple yet comprehensive framework to support policy-makers and practitioners in addressing the macroeconomic determinants of health. Further research is needed in low and middle income countries and further reviews are needed to summarise evidence in key gaps identified by this review. TRIAL REGISTRATION Protocol for umbrella review prospectively registered with PROSPERO CRD42017068357.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannish Naik
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett St, Leeds, LS9 7TF UK
- University of Liverpool Department of Public Health and Policy, 3rd Floor, Whelan Building, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L69 3GB UK
| | - Peter Baker
- Global Health and Development Group, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, St Mary’s Campus, Norfolk Place, London, W2 1PG UK
| | - Sharif A. Ismail
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH UK
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, Reynolds Building, St Dunstans Road, London, W6 8RP UK
| | - Taavi Tillmann
- Centre for Global Non-Communicable Diseases, Institute for Global Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH UK
| | - Kristin Bash
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), The University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA UK
| | - Darryl Quantz
- NW School of Public Health, Health Education England North West, First Floor Regatta Place, Brunswick Business Park, Summers Road, Liverpool, L3 4BL UK
| | - Frances Hillier-Brown
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Durham University, 42 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN UK
| | - Wikum Jayatunga
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, 222 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DA UK
| | - Gill Kelly
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett St, Leeds, LS9 7TF UK
| | - Michelle Black
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), The University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA UK
| | - Anya Gopfert
- Junior Doctor and National Medical Director’s Fellow, London, UK
| | - Peter Roderick
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett St, Leeds, LS9 7TF UK
| | - Ben Barr
- University of Liverpool Department of Public Health and Policy, 3rd Floor, Whelan Building, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L69 3GB UK
| | - Clare Bambra
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Sir James Spence Building, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
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Kliestikova J, Krizanova A, Corejova T, Kral P, Spuchlakova E. Subsidies to Increase Remote Pollution? Sci Eng Ethics 2018; 24:755-767. [PMID: 28405959 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-017-9908-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
During the last decade, Central Europe became a cynosure for the world for its unparalleled public support for renewable energy. For instance, the production of electricity from purpose-grown biomass received approximately twice the amount in subsidies as that produced from biowaste. Moreover, the guaranteed purchase price of electricity from solar panels was set approximately five times higher than that from conventional sources. This controversial environmental donation policy led to the devastation of large areas of arable land, a worsening of food availability, unprecedented market distortions, and serious threats to national budgets, among other things. Now, the first proposals to donate the purchase price of electric vehicles (and related infrastructure) from national budgets have appeared for public debate. Advocates of these ideas argue that they can solve the issue of electricity overproduction, and that electric vehicles will reduce emissions in cities. However, our analysis reveals that, as a result of previous scandals, environmental issues have become less significant to local citizens. Given that electric cars are not yet affordable for most people, in terms of local purchasing power, this action would further undermine national budgets. Furthermore, while today's electromobiles produce zero pollution when operated, their sum of emissions (i.e. global warming potential) remains much higher than that of conventional combustion engines. Therefore, we conclude that the mass usage of electromobiles could result in the unethical improvement of a city environment at the expense of marginal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Kliestikova
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26, Zilina, Slovak Republic.
| | - Anna Krizanova
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26, Zilina, Slovak Republic
| | - Tatiana Corejova
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26, Zilina, Slovak Republic
| | - Pavol Kral
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26, Zilina, Slovak Republic
| | - Erika Spuchlakova
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, University of Zilina, Univerzitna 8215/1, 010 26, Zilina, Slovak Republic
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Labonté R, Lencucha R, Drope J, Packer C, Goma FM, Zulu R. The institutional context of tobacco production in Zambia. Global Health 2018; 14:5. [PMID: 29338793 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-018-0328-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tobacco production is said to be an important contributor to Zambia's economy in terms of labour and revenue generation. In light of Zambia's obligations under the WHO Framework Convention of Tobacco Control (FCTC) we examined the institutional actors in Zambia's tobacco sector to better understand their roles and determine the institutional context that supports tobacco production in Zambia. METHODS Findings from 26 qualitative, semi-structured individual or small-group interviews with key informants from governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations were analysed, along with data and information from published literature. RESULTS Although Zambia is obligated under the FCTC to take steps to reduce tobacco production, the country's weak economy and strong tobacco interests make it difficult to achieve this goal. Respondents uniformly acknowledged that growing the country's economy and ensuring employment for its citizens are the government's top priorities. Lacklustre coordination and collaboration between the institutional actors, both within and outside government, contributes to an environment that helps sustain tobacco production in the country. A Tobacco Products Control Bill has been under review for a number of years, but with no supply measures included, and with no indication of when or whether it will be passed. CONCLUSIONS As with other low-income countries involved in tobacco production, there is inconsistency between Zambia's economic policy to strengthen the country's economy and its FCTC commitment to regulate and control tobacco production. The absence of a whole-of-government approach towards tobacco control has created an institutional context of duelling objectives, with some government ministries working at cross-purposes and tobacco interests left unchecked. With no ultimate coordinating authority, this industry risks being run according to the desire and demands of multinational tobacco companies, with few, if any, checks against them.
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Conklin AI, Ponce NA, Crespi CM, Frank J, Nandi A, Heymann J. Economic policy and the double burden of malnutrition: cross-national longitudinal analysis of minimum wage and women's underweight and obesity. Public Health Nutr 2018; 21:940-7. [PMID: 29208071 DOI: 10.1017/S1368980017003433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine changes in minimum wage associated with changes in women's weight status. DESIGN Longitudinal study of legislated minimum wage levels (per month, purchasing power parity-adjusted, 2011 constant US dollar values) linked to anthropometric and sociodemographic data from multiple Demographic and Health Surveys (2000-2014). Separate multilevel models estimated associations of a $10 increase in monthly minimum wage with the rate of change in underweight and obesity, conditioning on individual and country confounders. Post-estimation analysis computed predicted mean probabilities of being underweight or obese associated with higher levels of minimum wage at study start and end. SETTING Twenty-four low-income countries. SUBJECTS Adult non-pregnant women (n 150 796). RESULTS Higher minimum wages were associated (OR; 95 % CI) with reduced underweight in women (0·986; 0·977, 0·995); a decrease that accelerated over time (P-interaction=0·025). Increasing minimum wage was associated with higher obesity (1·019; 1·008, 1·030), but did not alter the rate of increase in obesity prevalence (P-interaction=0·8). A $10 rise in monthly minimum wage was associated (prevalence difference; 95 % CI) with an average decrease of about 0·14 percentage points (-0·14; -0·23, -0·05) for underweight and an increase of about 0·1 percentage points (0·12; 0·04, 0·20) for obesity. CONCLUSIONS The present longitudinal multi-country study showed that a $10 rise in monthly minimum wage significantly accelerated the decline in women's underweight prevalence, but had no association with the pace of growth in obesity prevalence. Thus, modest rises in minimum wage may be beneficial for addressing the protracted underweight problem in poor countries, especially South Asia and parts of Africa.
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Abstract
Despite the numerous health benefits of breastfeeding, few American women breastfeed for the optimal duration of time. Reasons given for not following national and global institutional breastfeeding recommendations are various and multi-faceted. However, for many American women who would like to breastfeed, unjust historical, social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors negatively impact their ability to breastfeed. Catholic social teaching seeks to protect the poor and the vulnerable by working for social and economic justice, encourages stewardship of the environment, and uplifts the family as the most important unit in society. As such, Catholic social teaching has clear implications for individuals and institutions seeking to make breastfeeding a more widespread, accepted practice. In response to the crisis in American rates of breastfeeding, American Catholic healthcare institutions should work to promote the just economic and social conditions necessary for American women to breastfeed their children, starting by implementing breastfeeding-friendly policies for patients and employees in their own institutions. SUMMARY For many American women who would like to breastfeed, unjust historical, social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors negatively impact their ability to breastfeed. Catholic social teaching has clear implications for individuals and institutions seeking to make breastfeeding a more widespread, accepted practice. Therefore, American Catholic healthcare institutions should work particularly hard to promote the just economic and social conditions necessary for American women to breastfeed their children, starting by implementing breastfeeding-friendly policies for patients and employees in their own institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Emily Stark
- Neiswanger Institute for Bioethics, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Peplow D, Augustine S. Intervention mapping to address social and economic factors impacting indigenous people's health in Suriname's interior region. Global Health 2017; 13:11. [PMID: 28249611 PMCID: PMC5333485 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-017-0238-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies found that while internationally financed economic development projects reduced poverty when measured in terms of per capita GDP, they also caused indigenous people to become disassociated, impoverished and alienated minorities whose health status has declined to unacceptable lows when measured in terms of mercury poisoning and the burgeoning rate of suicide. In this study, we developed a needs assessment and a policy-oriented causal diagram to determine whether the impaired health of the people in this region was at least partially due to the role the country has played within the global economy. Specifically, could the health and well-being of indigenous people in Suriname be understood in terms of the foreign investment programs and economic development policies traceable to the Inter-American Development Bank's Suriname Land Management Project. METHODS Interviews took place from 2004 through 2015 involving stakeholders with an interest in public health and economic development. A policy-oriented causal diagram was created to model a complex community health system and weave together a wide range of ideas and views captured during the interview process. RESULTS Converting land and resources held by indigenous people into private ownership has created an active market for land, increased investment and productivity, and reduced poverty when measured in terms of per capita GDP. However, it has also caused indigenous people to become disassociated, impoverished and alienated minorities whose health status has declined to unacceptable lows. While the effects of economic development programs on the health of vulnerable indigenous communities are clear, the governance response is not. The governance response appeared to be determined less by the urgency of the public health issue or by the compelling logic of an appropriate response, and more by competing economic interests and the exercise of power. CONCLUSION The health and well-being of the indigenous Wayana in Suriname's interior region is at least partially due to the role the country has played within the global economy. Specifically, the health and well-being of indigenous people in Suriname can be understood to be a result of foreign development bank-funded projects that drive the government of Suriname to trade land and natural resources on the global market to manage their country's balance of payments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Peplow
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, White Swan, WA USA
- Suriname Indigenous Health Fund, White Swan, WA USA
| | - Sarah Augustine
- Sociology Department, Heritage University, Toppenish, WA USA
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Lewison G, Kumar S, Wong CY, Roe P, Webber R. The contribution of ethnic groups to Malaysian scientific output, 1982-2014, and the effects of the new economic policy. Scientometrics 2016; 109:1877-93. [PMID: 27942083 DOI: 10.1007/s11192-016-2139-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Malaysia has three main ethnic communities: Chinese, Indians and Malays. At independence in 1957, the Chinese dominated commercial life, and this led to ethnic tensions and finally riots. As a result in 1969 Malaysia introduced a “New Economic Policy” (NEP) to promote Malays in all areas of activity, and in particular to assist them to obtain basic and higher education. We examined the scientific outputs from Malaysia between 1982 and 2014 and classified the names of Malaysian researchers into one of these three groups and two others. There was a major increase in Malay participation in research, which has risen from 20 % of researchers in 1982–1984 to 65 % in 2012–2014, with corresponding declines in the percentages of Chinese and Indian authors, although their absolute numbers have increased because Malaysian scientific output has increased so rapidly in the last 10 years. The huge increase in Malay researchers contrasts with their presence in the Malaysian population which has remained stable at about 50 % since 1969.
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Kurz HD. Is there a "Ricardian Vice"? And what is its relationship with economic policy ad"vice"? J Evol Econ 2016; 27:91-114. [PMID: 28163395 PMCID: PMC5253719 DOI: 10.1007/s00191-016-0468-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Schumpeter chastised Ricardo for his alleged "vice" - the so-called "Ricardian Vice" - of drawing far reaching policy conclusions from utterly simplistic models, which, moreover, were underdetermined. The paper first argues that Schumpeter saw Ricardo's approach to the theory of value and distribution through a marginalist lens and therefore arrived at a distorted picture of the latter. Several of the criticisms he levelled at Ricardo cannot be sustained. The paper then has a closer look at Schumpeter's pronouncements on economic policy issues and shows that in a number of respects his views did not differ that much from Ricardo's and in some respects were remarkably similar. This concerns especially the problem of paying off the public debt, with regard to which both Ricardo after the Napoleonic Wars and Schumpeter after World War I advocated a once for all capital levy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz D. Kurz
- Graz Schumpeter Centre, University of Graz, RESOWI-Zentrum FE, Universitätsstraße 15, 8010 Graz, Austria
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