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The Deletion of Variables From Regression Models Based on Tests of Significance: A Statistical and Moral Issue

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  • Debertin, David L.
  • Freund, R. J.

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate some of the dangers inherent in use of statistical tests as a criterion for deleting variables from regression models. The deletion of variables from regression models based on t or F tests of regression coefficients has been a procedure widely followed by applied economists and other researchers. When economic theory does not provide an adequate conceptual basis for rigorous a priori specification of the regression model, one approach to model specification has been to include in the regression equation all variables thought to be “somehow” related to the dependent variable of interest. Subsets of variables with statistically significant coefficients are identified, with the aid of a stepwise regression routine. Truncated models consisting of only those variables with statistically significant regression coefficients are sometimes presented in the published research without reference to the initial data dredging that took place.

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  • Debertin, David L. & Freund, R. J., 1975. "The Deletion of Variables From Regression Models Based on Tests of Significance: A Statistical and Moral Issue," Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 7(1), pages 211-216, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jagaec:v:7:y:1975:i:01:p:211-216_01
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gian S. Sahota, 1968. "Efficiency of Resource Allocation in Indian Agriculture," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 50(3), pages 584-605.
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    4. George W. Ladd, 1969. "Federal Milk Marketing Order Provisions: Effects on Producer Prices and Intermarket Price Relationships," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 51(3), pages 625-641.
    5. Alvin C. Egbert, 1969. "An Aggregate Model of Agriculture—Empirical Estimates and Some Policy Implications," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 51(1), pages 71-86.
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    1. Shumway, C. Richard & Talpaz, Hovav, 1977. "Verification Of Linear Programming Solutions, With Emphasis On Supply Implications," Southern Journal of Agricultural Economics, Southern Agricultural Economics Association, vol. 9(2), pages 1-8, December.
    2. Debertin, David L., 1976. "Estimating Education Production Functions in Rural and Urban Areas," Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 8(2), pages 31-35, December.
    3. Bowker, J. M. & MacDonald, H. F., 1992. "An Economic Analysis of Localized Pollution: Rendering Emissions in a Residential Setting," 1992 Annual Meeting, August 9-12, Baltimore, Maryland 271381, American Agricultural Economics Association (New Name 2008: Agricultural and Applied Economics Association).
    4. Griffin, Ronald C. & Rister, M. Edward & Montgomery, John M. & Turner, Fred T., 1985. "Scheduling Inputs With Production Functions: Optimal Nitrogen Programs For Rice," Southern Journal of Agricultural Economics, Southern Agricultural Economics Association, vol. 17(1), pages 1-10, July.

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