This paper questions the three standard propositions used by politico-economic models of growth and distribution according to which (1) rising inequality induces more government redistribution; (2) more government redistribution is financed by higher distortionary taxation; and (3) higher...

Many observers consider the German 'debt brake' beyond criticism. In the current crisis, many European countries have difficulties refinancing their budgets, while the German treasury's funding conditions are most favourable. The 'fiscal compact's' call for the introduction of German-style 'debt...

Die alles entscheidende Herausforderung für die Wirtschaftspolitik 2012 ist die Stabilisierung des Euroraums. Die bisherigen Versuche sind unzureichend, insbesondere da ihnen die allzu enge Interpretation als Staatschuldenkrise zu Grunde liegt. Tatsächlich handelt es sich um eine...