Discrimination and Human Capital: A Challenge to Economic Theory & Social Justice

Authors

Richard K. Caputo, Yeshiva University

Abstract

This article reports findings of a study using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY79) to test the rational choice theory that discrimination discourages investments in human capital. Nearly 60% of the study sample (N=5585) reported job-hiring discrimination (race, nationality, sex, or age) between 1979 and 1982 and they were found to invest more in job training programs and additional schooling between 1983 and 1998 than those reporting no such discrimination. White males were found to have the greatest advantage over black males and females in regard to job training and over black females in regard to additional schooling. Findings suggest that appeals to affirmative action policies and programs based on race and sex remain warranted.

Recommended Citation

Caputo, Richard K. (2002) "Discrimination and Human Capital: A Challenge to Economic Theory & Social Justice," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 29: Iss. 2, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.2810
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol29/iss2/8