Keynes Thought That the Behaviour of the Economy in the Short

question 243

Essay

Keynes thought that the behaviour of the economy in the short run was influenced by what he called "animal spirits." By this he meant that businesspeople sometimes felt good about the economy, and carried out lots of investment, and at other times felt bad about the economy, and so cut back on their investment spending. Explain how such fluctuations in investment would lead to fluctuations in GDP and prices.

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Definitions:

Financial Advantage

A benefit or edge a person or business has that allows for better financial performance or opportunities than competitors.

Fixed Manufacturing Overhead

Costs associated with the production that do not vary with the level of output, including salaries of managers and rent of the factory.

Unit Product Cost

A calculation of the expense required to manufacture one unit of a product, accounting for all production costs.

Financial Advantage

The benefit gained in a financial context, which may involve cost savings, increased revenue, or investment returns.