Summary:
One of the more puzzling aspects of neo-classical economic theory is the assertion that profits are zero in equilibrium under the conditions that are assumed for many models. One should re-interpret this statement as "excess profits" are zero, but there are still some awkward aspects to the treatment of profits in standard macro models. This article works through the theory of profits for an example dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, and discusses the difficulties with the mathematical formulation. The example is taken from Chapter 16 ("Optimal Taxation With Commitment") in the textbook Recursive Macroeconomic Theory, by Lars Ljungqvist and Thomas J. Sargent (I have the third edition). For brevity, the text will be abbreviated as [LS2012] herein. If the reader is
Topics:
Mike Norman considers the following as important: conventional economics, DSGE modeling, econometrics, neoclassical economics, profit theory
This could be interesting, too:
One of the more puzzling aspects of neo-classical economic theory is the assertion that profits are zero in equilibrium under the conditions that are assumed for many models. One should re-interpret this statement as "excess profits" are zero, but there are still some awkward aspects to the treatment of profits in standard macro models. This article works through the theory of profits for an example dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, and discusses the difficulties with the mathematical formulation. The example is taken from Chapter 16 ("Optimal Taxation With Commitment") in the textbook Recursive Macroeconomic Theory, by Lars Ljungqvist and Thomas J. Sargent (I have the third edition). For brevity, the text will be abbreviated as [LS2012] herein. If the reader is
Topics:
Mike Norman considers the following as important: conventional economics, DSGE modeling, econometrics, neoclassical economics, profit theory
This could be interesting, too:
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One of the more puzzling aspects of neo-classical economic theory is the assertion that profits are zero in equilibrium under the conditions that are assumed for many models. One should re-interpret this statement as "excess profits" are zero, but there are still some awkward aspects to the treatment of profits in standard macro models. This article works through the theory of profits for an example dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, and discusses the difficulties with the mathematical formulation.
The example is taken from Chapter 16 ("Optimal Taxation With Commitment") in the textbook Recursive Macroeconomic Theory, by Lars Ljungqvist and Thomas J. Sargent (I have the third edition). For brevity, the text will be abbreviated as [LS2012] herein. If the reader is mathematically trained and wishes to delve into DSGE models, this textbook is the best place to start. The mathematics is closer to the original optimal control theory that DSGE macro is based upon, whereas other treatments follow the mathematical standards of academic economics, the difficulties with which are discussed later in this article....Bond Economics
The Curious Profit Accounting Of DSGE Models
Brian Romanchuk
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Lars P. Syll | Professor, Malmo University