Pareto and probability distributions

Abstract

Although familiar with the developments in probability theory of his time, Vilfredo Pareto made little use of this tool in his writings, preferring theoretical constructions based on experimentation and observation. This article attempts to reconstruct Pareto’s overall approach to probability by examining his references to the distribution of income, an economic fact that lends itself to probabilistic investigation. The result of this research shows how Pareto alludes to the application of probability to income and social groups, but leaves the task to his followers. JEL classification B31, B4, C1.