That econometric methodology remains in dispute partly reflects the lack of clear evidence on alternative approaches. This paper reconsiders econometric model selection from a computer-automation perspective, focusing on general-to-specific reduction approaches, as embodied in the program PcGets (general-to-specific). Starting from a general linear, dynamic statistical model, which captures the essential data characteristics, standard testing procedures are applied to eliminate statistically-insignificant variables, using diagnostic tests to check the validity of the reductions, ensuring a congruent final model. As the joint issue of variable selection and diagnostic testing eludes most attempts at theoretical analysis, a simulation-based analysis of modelling strategies is presented. The results of the Monte Carlo experiments cohere with the established theory: PcGets recovers the DGP specification with remarkable accuracy. Empirical size and power of PcGets are close to what one would expect if the DGP were known.
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Hendry, David F, 1980.
"Econometrics-Alchemy or Science?,"
Economica,
London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 47(188), pages 387-406, November.
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