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Economists A, B, and C are using different empirical approaches to empirically study the gender wage gap

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Economists A, B, and C are using different empirical approaches to empirically study the gender wage gap. A looks at the difference in the average hourly wage that is paid to men and women. B uses a regression approach and controls for years of education. C uses a regression approach that controls for years and education and occupational dummies. It is known that women have on average more education than men and are employed disproportionately often in occupations that pay low wages. The economists study wage discrimination in a country where education of both men and women is fully founded by the government. Journalists Ji, J2, and J2 comment on the research of A, B and C. J1: "All three economists will measure a similar wage gap (up to estimation error)" J2: "Only A is measuring the true effect of wage discrimination." J3: "We should not forget that there is discrimination that makes it difficult for women to enter some high paying occupations. Only C is measuring the true effect of wage discrimination." Critically reply to the comments by the journalists. • Answer using complete sentences. • You can write an essay or organize your answer using bullet points. • Your answer must not exceed 4000 characters including spaces. Your answer should contain the following: 1. (7 points) An intuitive explanation of what it means to "control for a variable" 2. (5 points) A statement and explanation of the expected differences in the magnitudes of the wage gaps estimated by A, B and C. 3. (5 points) An explanation why J2 may be wrong. 4. (8 points) An explanation why J3 may be wrong.