Production function regressions, returns to scale, and externalities

Burnside, C. (1996) Production function regressions, returns to scale, and externalities. Journal of Monetary Economics, 37(2), pp. 177-201. (doi: 10.1016/S0304-3932(96)90033-1)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0304-3932(96)90033-1

Abstract

A number of recent papers have used simple linear regressions in an attempt to identify market structure, the extent of returns to scale, and possible external effects in U.S. manufacturing industries. The results obtained from these regressions have important implications for several branches of modern macroeconomics. As a result, the macro literature frequently cites specific numerical evidence from Caballero and Lyons (1992) and Hall (1990), which suggests that there are quantitatively significant increasing returns to scale, or external effects in U.S. manufacturing. In contrast, it is the argument of this paper that this evidence is not convincing. The most robust evidence suggests that the typical U.S. manufacturing industry displays constant returns with no external effects. On the other hand, there is significant heterogeneity across industries.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Burnside, Professor Craig
Authors: Burnside, C.
Subjects:H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory
College/School:College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Economics
Journal Name:Journal of Monetary Economics
ISSN:0304-3932
ISSN (Online):1873-1295
Published Online:29 July 2004

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