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Being Focused: When the Purpose of Inference Matters for Model Selection

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Listed:
  • Behl, Peter
  • Dette, Holger
  • Frondel, Manuel
  • Tauchmann, Harald

Abstract

In contrast to conventional model selection criteria, the Focused Information Criterion (FIC) allows for purpose-specific choice of models. This accommodates the idea that one kind of model might be highly appropriate for inferences on a particular parameter, but not for another. Ever since its development, the FIC has been increasingly applied in the realm of statistics, but this concept appears to be virtually unknown in the economic literature. Using a classical example and data for 35 U.S. industry sectors (1960-2005), this paper provides for an illustration of the FIC and a demonstration of its usefulness in empirical applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Behl, Peter & Dette, Holger & Frondel, Manuel & Tauchmann, Harald, 2011. "Being Focused: When the Purpose of Inference Matters for Model Selection," Ruhr Economic Papers 264, RWI - Leibniz-Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Ruhr-University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, University of Duisburg-Essen.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:rwirep:264
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Manuel Frondel & Christoph M. Schmidt, 2006. "The Empirical Assessment of Technology Differences: Comparing the Comparable," The Review of Economics and Statistics, MIT Press, vol. 88(1), pages 186-192, February.
    2. Fuss, Melvyn & McFadden, Daniel, 1978. "Production Economics: A Dual Approach to Theory and Applications (II): Applications of the Theory of Production," History of Economic Thought Books, McMaster University Archive for the History of Economic Thought, volume 2, number fuss1978a.
    3. Behl, Peter & Dette, Holger & Frondel, Manuel & Tauchmann, Harald, 2012. "Choice is suffering: A Focused Information Criterion for model selection," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 29(3), pages 817-822.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Information Criteria; translog cost function; cross-price elasticities;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C3 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables
    • D2 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations

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