A Non-parametric Examination of Capital-Skill Complementarity

This paper uses non-parametric kernel methods to construct observation-specific elasticities of substitution for a balanced panel of 73 developed and developing countries to examine the capital-skill complementarity hypothesis. The exercise shows some support for capital-skill complementarity, but the strength of the evidence depends upon the definition of skilled labour and the elasticity of substitution measure being used. The added flexibility of the non-parametric procedure is also capable of uncover ing that the elasticities of substitution vary across countries, groups of countries and time periods.