Background
Income from employment refers to the compensation or remuneration one receives as a result of working for another person, firm, or government entity. This compensation can be provided in various forms, including wages, salaries, bonuses, and fringe benefits.
Historical Context
The measurement and understanding of income from employment have evolved with changes in labor markets, economic policies, and standard of living metrics. Historical shifts from agricultural to industrial economies marked significant changes in how employment income was computed and valued.
Definitions and Concepts
Income from employment can be categorized into multiple types based on what is included or excluded in its calculation.
- Gross income - Total income before any deductions.
- Net income - Income after deductions, such as taxes and pension contributions.
- Benefits in kind - Non-cash benefits provided by employers.
Major Analytical Frameworks
Classical Economics
Classical economists view employment income primarily as a reward for labor. It is seen as a component of production where labor, as a factor of production, is compensated.
Neoclassical Economics
In the neoclassical framework, employment income is determined by supply and demand for labor. Wages are equated to the marginal productivity of labor.
Keynesian Economic
Keynesians emphasize the role of employment income in aggregate demand. According to this view, higher employment income can drive consumption and spur economic growth.
Marxian Economics
Marxist theory interprets employment income as a product of labor exploitation by capitalists. The wage system is seen as a tool to extract surplus value from labor.
Institutional Economics
Institutional economists study the role of institutions, labor laws, collective bargaining, and cultural factors in shaping income from employment.
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral economists examine how psychological factors and cognitive biases impact income expectations, negotiation, and job satisfaction.
Post-Keynesian Economics
This branch emphasizes the role of employment and wages in economic stability and income distribution.
Austrian Economics
Austrian economists focus on the individual choices and market processes that lead to the setting of employment income. They underscore the subjective value of labor.
Development Economics
In development economics, employment income is a key factor in understanding poverty alleviation, household economics, and economic development.
Monetarism
Monetarists examine the impact of money supply and monetary policies on employment income and inflation.
Comparative Analysis
Different economic frameworks offer varied insights into how employment income is determined, measured, and affects the economy. Classical and neoclassical perspectives focus on market mechanisms, while Keynesian and Marxian approaches examine structural and aggregate dynamics. Institutional and behavioral economics add layers of societal context and individual psychology.
Case Studies
- Post-War Economic Boom (1945 - 1960): Illustrates the effect of increased employment income on economic growth and consumption.
- Global Financial Crisis (2008): Examines the downturn in employment income and its broader economic implications.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Income and Wealth” by Richard Bird
- “The Living Wage” by David Harwell
- “Wages, Employment, Distribution” by Thomas E. Weisskopf
- “Labour Economics” by George J. Borjas
Related Terms with Definitions
- Gross Salary: Total income earned before deductions.
- Net Salary: Income received after deductions such as taxes and social security.
- Fringe Benefits: Additional compensation offered to employees beyond the standard salary.
- Disposable Income: Net income after personal taxes and other obligations.
- Permanent Income: Average annual income, considering the effect of different phases of earnings through one’s career.
