The Economic Consequences of Being Left-Handed: Some Sinister Results

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Human Resources
Year: 2007
Volume: 42
Issue: 2

Authors (2)

Kevin Denny (not in RePEc) Vincent O’ Sullivan (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This paper estimates the effects of handedness on earnings. Augmenting a conventional earnings equation with an indicator of left-handedness shows there is a positive effect on male earnings with manual workers enjoying a slightly larger premium. These results are inconsistent with the view that left-handers in general are handicapped either innately or through experiencing a world geared toward right-handers. Left-handed females however are paid significantly less. The results are consistent with a range of mostly psychological evidence, which suggests that left-hander males have particular talents such as enhanced creativity.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:uwp:jhriss:v:42:y:2007:i2:p353-374
Journal Field
Labor
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25