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Edward Leamer Deserves a Nobel Prize for Improving Argumentation That Uses Statistics

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  • Arnold Kling

Abstract

This article suggests that Edward Leamer deserves the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for launching the movement to examine critically the validity of statistical inference in empirical research. The Leamer critique caused economists to largely abandon ordinary multiple regression and to instead employ more credible research designs, such as natural experiments. In fact, he should be even more influential than he already has been. Besides highlighting the insights and teachings of Specification Searches (1978) and “Let’s Take the Con Out of Econometrics” (1983), I also treat his Macroeconomic Patterns and Stories (2009).

Suggested Citation

  • Arnold Kling, 2020. "Edward Leamer Deserves a Nobel Prize for Improving Argumentation That Uses Statistics," Econ Journal Watch, Econ Journal Watch, vol. 17(1), pages 228–241-2, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ejw:journl:v:17:y:2020:i:1:p:228-241
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Leamer, Edward E, 1983. "Let's Take the Con Out of Econometrics," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 73(1), pages 31-43, March.
    2. Edward E. Leamer, 2009. "Macroeconomic Patterns and Stories," Springer Books, Springer, number 978-3-540-46389-4, July.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Sensitivity analysis; econometrics; specification search; data mining; natural experiments; replication; statistical inference;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C0 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - General
    • C1 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General
    • C9 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments
    • B4 - Schools of Economic Thought and Methodology - - Economic Methodology

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