Unit 2: Introduction to Macroeconomics

Lesson 12b: The AD/AS Model - AS and Equilibrium in the Macro-Economy
(UE, IN, and EG)

Introduction

 

Almost everyday we can find news about unemployment (UE), inflation (IN), and economic growth (EG). People discuss these issues over coffee and presidential candidates discuss them during debates. Our elected leaders consider them in pieces of legislation. How can we gain a better understanding of the causes of unemployment, inflation, and economic growth so that we can better understand these discussions? To economists the answer is the Aggregate Demand / Aggregate Supply model of the macroeconomy.

In this lesson we will add aggregate supply to our aggregate demand graph (lesson 12a) and use the combined graphs to find the equilibrium level of real GDP (output) and price level. We will see what causes the equilibrium level of real GDP (output) and price level of an economy to change (the determinants of AD and AS), and we will use such changes to gain a better understanding of the causes of UE, IN, and EG.

So the next time you hear a politician discuss what they plan to do about UE, IN, and EG, you will have a much better understanding of what the are saying.

 

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Lesson 12b