Chapter 25: Problem 10

From a Keynesian point of view, which is more likely to cause a recession: aggregate demand or aggregate supply, and why?

Short Answer

Expert verified

From a Keynesian point of view, a recession is more likely to be caused by a decline in aggregate demand rather than aggregate supply. This is because aggregate demand is more susceptible to shocks and fluctuations, such as changes in consumer sentiment, financial crises, and fiscal policies. A decrease in aggregate demand can lead to a downward spiral of reduced production, increased unemployment, and lower incomes, which further decrease aggregate demand and push the economy into a recession.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Keynesian Point of View

According to Keynesian economics, aggregate demand plays a significant role in determining the overall level of economic activity. A shortfall in aggregate demand can lead to unemployment and a recession. Meanwhile, aggregate supply focuses on the production side of the economy and reflects the total output of goods and services at various price levels.

Understanding Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply

Aggregate demand (AD) is the total demand for goods and services in an economy at different price levels, which is represented by the sum of consumption, investment, government spending, and net exports. On the other hand, aggregate supply (AS) is the total output of goods and services produced in an economy at different price levels.

Keynesian View on Recessions

According to the Keynesian point of view, recessions are generally caused by a decrease in aggregate demand rather than aggregate supply. Keynes argued that a lack of demand can result in a downward spiral of reduced production, increased unemployment, and lower incomes, all of which contribute to decreased consumption and investment. This, in turn, can lead to even lower aggregate demand, further deepening the recession.

Why Aggregate Demand is More Likely to Cause a Recession

The main reason why aggregate demand is more likely to cause a recession from a Keynesian perspective is that it is more susceptible to shocks and fluctuations. Factors such as changes in consumer sentiment, financial crises, and fiscal policies can significantly impact aggregate demand, leading to sharp declines that may result in a recession. On the other hand, aggregate supply tends to be more stable unless there are major disruptions like wars or natural disasters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, from a Keynesian point of view, a recession is more likely to be caused by a decline in aggregate demand rather than aggregate supply. This is because aggregate demand is more prone to shocks and fluctuations, and a drop in aggregate demand can lead to a vicious cycle of reduced production, increased unemployment, and lower incomes, which further decrease aggregate demand and push the economy into a recession.