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Checking if the Straitjacket Fits

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  • Wickens, Michael R.
  • Pagan, Adrian

Abstract

This paper discusses, and provides new evidence on, the view that "theory, while essential, should be regarded as a flexible framework rather than a straightjacket, because features that the theory abstracts from may be important in practice". It considers how best to assess the empirical performance of tightly specified models such as DSGE models, and loosely specified models such as SVARs. These issues are illustrated using various New Keynesian models. We conclude that the challenge is to incorporate flexibility into the theory in such a way as to be compatible with both the theory and the data.

Suggested Citation

  • Wickens, Michael R. & Pagan, Adrian, 2019. "Checking if the Straitjacket Fits," CEPR Discussion Papers 14140, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:14140
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    Cited by:

    1. Buncic, Daniel, 2024. "Econometric issues in the estimation of the natural rate of interest," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 132(C).
    2. Daniel Buncic, 2020. "Econometric issues with Laubach and Williams' estimates of the natural rate of interest," Papers 2002.11583, arXiv.org, revised Aug 2020.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Model testing; Dsge models; Svars;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C52 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Evaluation, Validation, and Selection
    • E3 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles

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