Classical and Keynesian Models of Aggregate Supply: A Comparison

1. Classical and Keynesian aggregate supply models

The Classical model of aggregate supply is based on the proposition that prices are determined by domestic production and demand conditions. The Keynesian model, on the other hand, is based on the substitution of imports for domestic production in response to changes in relative prices.

2. Price determination in the Classical model

In the Classical model, domestic production and demand determine prices. Prices are set at the point where aggregate demand equals aggregate supply. The level of output is determined by the intersection of the aggregate supply and aggregate demand curves.

3. Price determination in the Keynesian model

In the Keynesian model, prices are determined by the substitution of imports for domestic production in response to changes in relative prices. The level of output is determined by the intersection of the marginal cost curve and the aggregate demand curve.

4. The policy implications of the Classical and Keynesian models

The Classical model implies that fiscal policy is ineffective in influencing aggregate demand and output. The Keynesian model, on the other hand, implies that fiscal policy can be used to influence aggregate demand and output.

5. Conclusion

The Classical and Keynesian models of aggregate supply differ in their justifications and policy implications. The Classical model implies that fiscal policy is ineffective in influencing aggregate demand and output while the Keynesian model suggests that fiscal policy can be used to affect these variables.

FAQ

The key difference between classical and Keynesian aggregate supply models is that the classical model assumes that prices are flexible and will adjust to changes in output, while the Keynesian model assumes that prices are sticky and do not adjust immediately to changes in output.

The classical model explains changes in output by assuming that changes in aggregate demand will lead to changes in the level of output, while the Keynesian model explains changes in output by assuming that changes in aggregate demand will lead to changes in the price level.

The implications of these models for economic policymaking are that policies which seek to increase aggregate demand may be more effective in stimulating economic activity in the short-term if prices are assumed to be sticky, as opposed to policies which seek to increase output directly.

The Keynesian aggregate supply model is more relevant for understanding the current state of the economy because it can help explain why inflation has been relatively low even though there have been significant increases in aggregate demand over recent years.