Source: EconLog
by Jon Murphy
“In almost any discussion of political and social issues, someone will use the argument that a discrepancy between two groups is per se evidence of discrimination against one group. However, statistical analysis reveals that the latter is not necessarily true. For example, it is true that women make less than men, but women also tend to go into professions that pay less than men. These professions may offer more flexibility along other margins than women prefer (e.g., more time with family, more safety, etc). Once adjusting for these factors, the pay gap almost disappears. Could discrimination still be going on against women? Absolutely.” (07/15/25)
https://www.econlib.org/discrepancy-does-not-imply-discrimination