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Behavioural economics is useful also in macroeconomics : the role of animal spirits

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  • de Grauwe, Paul
  • Ji, Yuemei

Abstract

Dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models are still dominant in mainstream macroeconomics, but they are only able to explain business cycle fluctuations as the result of exogenous shocks. This paper uses concepts from behavioural economics and discusses a New Keynesian macroeconomic model that generates endogenous business cycle fluctuations driven by animal spirits. Our discussion includes two applications. One is on the optimal level of inflation targeting under a zero lower bound constraint. The other is on the role of animal spirits in explaining the synchronization of business cycles across countries.

Suggested Citation

  • de Grauwe, Paul & Ji, Yuemei, 2018. "Behavioural economics is useful also in macroeconomics : the role of animal spirits," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 87286, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:87286
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    1. Behavioural economics is useful also in macroeconomics : the role of animal spirits
      by Christian Zimmermann in NEP-DGE blog on 2019-03-27 15:30:15

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Animal spirits Behavioural macroeconomics Monetary policy Inflation target Zero lower bound Business cycles;

    JEL classification:

    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • E58 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Central Banks and Their Policies
    • F42 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - International Policy Coordination and Transmission

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