hogeinkomense

Hogeinkomense is a term used in some economic and public policy discussions to refer to high-income groups or households. It is often used as a shorthand in debates about taxation, redistribution and public spending, distinguishing those with the highest levels of disposable income from the rest of the population.

Etymology and usage: The word combines Dutch roots hooge (high) and inkomsten (incomes). In Dutch and some Scandinavian policy literature, hoogeinkomense or hooge inkomsten is used to denote the concept of high earnings; in English-language work the phrase is usually rendered as "high-income earners" or "high-income households."

Measurement and scope: Researchers define the group using income thresholds, such as the top quintile or top 1 percent, or by fixed income levels. The concept typically relies on disposable income after taxes and transfers, to reflect the resources available for consumption and saving.

Policy relevance: The hogeinkomense concept is central to discussions about progressive taxation, social contributions, and targeted subsidies. It is used to estimate revenue potential, assess the distributional impact of policies, and study how taxation affects labor supply and investment decisions.

Criticism and limitations: Critics argue that the category is heterogeneous and sensitive to taxation, transfers, and cost-of-living adjustments. Measuring high income is challenging across countries and over time, and the label can obscure income volatility and wealth not captured by income alone.

See also: income inequality; tax policy; progressive taxation; wealth tax.