Working Paper Series,
Stockholm University, Swedish Institute for Social Research

Abstract: The classical twin model has often been used to determine whether variation in outcomes such IQ, schooling and other behavioral traits, originate from genetic endowments or environmental factors. Despite some heavy criticism from prominent scholars, the model has recently reappeared in highly ranked economics journals to perhaps spark off a revival of the method. This article seeks to specify the assumptions which generate the apparently profound divide in viewpoints. A general problem is that most authors do not properly discuss the underlying assumptions of the twin model. It has partly led to a disarray of thoughts, concrete examples are provided, since the interpretation of the results and the risk for misleading interpretations are not spelled out. Therefore, perhaps surprisingly, a brief account of the theories behind the main assumptions of the twin model provides a useful contribution.

Keywords: genes; environments

JEL-codes: H50; J62

20 pages, March 9, 2011

Full text files

WP11no4.pdf  

Download statistics

• Stockholm University, Swedish Institute for Social Research
• Ordering Working Papers
• Home page for this series

Questions (including download problems) about the papers in this series should be directed to Daniel Rossetti ()
Report other problems with accessing this service to Sune Karlsson ().

This page generated on 2024-02-05 17:13:41.