The Current State of the Economy and Unemployment. Imagine a scenario where there is a decline in aggregate demand. Identify which part of the business cycle is part of a decline in aggregate demand. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the amount of new production. A change in the amount of new production affects employment. Describe what would happen to GDP, the unemployment rate and the inflation rate if there is a decline in aggregate demand.
Reference: Aggregate Equilibrium and Changes in Equilibrium.
Guided Response: Review and respond to at least two of your classmates' posts by discussing this question in terms of how a decrease in aggregate demand impacts GDP, and why the change in GDP affects unemployment.
Who Benefits and Who Loses from Inflation? Inflation is an important policy issue because it causes a redistribution of income and wealth, and discourages saving and investment. Discuss how inflation affects borrowers and lenders, asset prices, and households on fixed incomes.
Reference: Gainers and Losers from Inflation.
Guided Response: Review and respond to at least two of your classmates' posts by sharing any ideas you may have about how households and businesses can protect themselves against inflation. Be sure to refer to concepts found in the reading when responding to your classmates.