Most theories of migration assume homogenous optimizing behavior by economic agents. In contrast Lipton assumes heterogeneity of group behavior — rich persons optimize whereas poor persons are more reactive than proactive. Hence, the migratory decisions of the rural poor are more likely to be influenced by push factors while pull factors more likely apply to the rural rich. In this article, push and pull factors are associated with satisficing and optimizing migratory behavior, respectively. To some extent, Nepalese data support Lipton's hypotheses concerning migration and remitting behavior of poor and rich families.
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