Correct spelling for the English word "theil" is [θˈe͡ɪl], [θˈeɪl], [θ_ˈeɪ_l] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Theil is a statistical measure that quantifies the level of inequality or dispersion within a given set of data. It was developed by economist Henri Theil and is widely used in various fields, including economics, demography, and social sciences. The Theil index is particularly useful for examining income or wealth distribution.
The Theil index measures inequality by comparing the variation within subgroups to the overall variation in the entire dataset. It calculates the proportion of total inequality that can be attributed to differences between subgroups. It ranges from 0 to 1, where 0 represents perfect equality and 1 indicates complete inequality.
The Theil index is computed by summing the individual contributions of each subgroup to the overall inequality. Each contribution is determined by the ratio of the subgroup's average value to the overall average, multiplied by the logarithm of this ratio. The final Theil index is the sum of these contributions.
Researchers and policymakers use the Theil index to gain insights into income distribution patterns, social mobility, and disparities among different groups. It helps in evaluating government policies, understanding economic development, and promoting social welfare. A higher Theil index signifies greater inequality, which may have implications for social cohesion, poverty, and access to resources.
In summary, the Theil index is a statistical tool that measures the level of inequality within a dataset by comparing variation among subgroups. It offers valuable insights into inequalities and is used in various fields to analyze income and wealth distributions.