Convergence in social indicators for Colombia. An approximation from the traditional and non-parametric approach

The neoclassical growth model predicts convergence between poor regions and rich regions, due to the decreasing returns of capital. This paper analyzes this relationship among Colombian departments, using variables different from income, like social indicators (life expectancy at birth and literacy rates), for the period 1985-2000. Using the traditional method proposed by Barro and Sala-i-Martin (1990, 1992) and nonparametric density estimations, we conclude that life expectancy at birth converges among departments, while literacy rates do not.