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The Role of Expectations in a Specialization-driven Growth Model with Endogenous Technology Choice

Author

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  • Shiro Kuwahara

    (Institute of Economic Research, Kyoto University)

  • Akihisa Shibata

    (Institute of Economic Research, Kyoto University)

Abstract

Extending the Kim (1989) model of endogenous labor specialization to an overlapping generations model with an endogenous technology choice, we show in this paper that, when the market size and the fixed costs associated with the technologies with labor specialization are small, the growth pattern of this economy depends on worker expectations. In other words, if workers expect low returns of specific human capital, they will not invest in such capital, and the economy will be eventually locked in an underdevelopment trap. On the other hand, if they expect high returns of specific human capital, they invest in such capital, and, as a result, the economy can exhibit long-run growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Shiro Kuwahara & Akihisa Shibata, 2006. "The Role of Expectations in a Specialization-driven Growth Model with Endogenous Technology Choice," KIER Working Papers 625, Kyoto University, Institute of Economic Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:kyo:wpaper:625
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    File URL: http://www.kier.kyoto-u.ac.jp/DP/DP625.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Labor specialization; endogenous choice of technology; endogenous growth; development traps;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O11 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Macroeconomic Analyses of Economic Development
    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology
    • O41 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - One, Two, and Multisector Growth Models

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