Gini Index: Conceiving Inequality in One Single Number

Abstract

Synonyms Gini coefficient; Gini concentration ratio; Gini ratio DefinitionThe Gini index is a measure between zero (perfect equality) and one (maximum inequality) which summarizes the degree of inequality in a given place and time across the population. It is the most often used measure of statistical dispersion of income. A Gini index of zero indicates that everyone in the population has the same income, so there is perfect equality across the population. A Gini index of one lies on the other extreme and indicates that only one individual from the whole population has all the income, everyone else has no income. Numbers closer to zero indicate less inequality, and the closer the Gini index is to one, the more unequal income is within the population considered. The Gini coefficient is often used to measure income inequality, but its applicability crosses various areas, such as pollution, health, and land distribution.

Economic Complexity and Inequality: Does Regional Productive Structure Affect Income Inequality in Brazilian States?

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Pengaruh Globalisasi Dan Ketimpangan Pendapatan Terhadap Indeks Pembangunan Manusia (IPM) Negara Berkembang Di Asean

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Gini Index in the Construction Industry; the case study of Chile

“…Throughout the history of economic analysis, several indicators have emerged for the study of inequality. However, the most used and accepted to quantify the levels of income inequality is the Gini index, but its applicability crosses various areas, such as pollution, health, and land distribution [5].…”