Understanding Inflation: Causes, Effects, and Key Concepts
This chapter explores the concept of inflation, defined as the general rise in price levels, with variations among different goods. Using the "Rule of 70," we estimate the time required for prices to double at a 10% inflation rate, which totals around 7 years. We delve into demand-pull inflation, which arises from increased spending outpacing production, and cost-push inflation caused by rising production costs and supply shortages. The chapter also addresses the impacts of wage inflation and supply shocks on the economy, emphasizing the delicate balance between supply and demand.
Understanding Inflation: Causes, Effects, and Key Concepts
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Presentation Transcript
Inflation Chapter 8, Unit 4, Part IV
Inflation: • A general rising of the level of prices (not all P rise at the same rate) • Rule of 70 also works for doubling time for price level Ex: How long would it take for prices to double if the inflation rate is 10%? 7 years
Causes of Inflation • Demand-Pull inflation • Spending increases faster than production • Too much money chasing too few goods • Too many consumers with ready cash or expectations for spending • Too many are employed causing wage inflation
Cost-Push or Supply-Side Inflation • Prices rise because of rise in per-unit production costs • Not enough supply of goods & services • Wage-push can occur as result of union strength • Supply shocks may occur with unexpected increases in the price of raw materials • Political cuts in supply • Could cause both output and employment to decline—real income declines.
Classwork—Page 157 • Questions: • 6 • 8 • 10 • 14 • 15