Publication

This paper assesses the positional impact on social capital by applying 14 different measurements to International Social Survey Program data from 25 countries. The purpose is to find research evidence on the impact of relative income position on individual attitudes and behavior. The authors find support for a positional concern effect or "envy" whose magnitude in several cases is substantial. The results indicate that such an effect is non-linear. In addition, the paper finds an indication that absolute income level is also relevant.