One of the Earlier Textbooks in Econometrics, First Published in 1971

question 26

Essay

One of the earlier textbooks in econometrics, first published in 1971, compared "estimation of a parameter to shooting at a target with a rifle. The bull's-eye can be taken to represent the true value of the parameter, the rifle the estimator, and each shot a particular estimate." Use this analogy to discuss small and large sample properties of estimators. How do you think the author approached the n → ∞ condition? (Dependent on your view of the world, feel free to substitute guns with bow and arrow, or missile.)

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