Dynamic Scoring: A Back-of-The-Envelope Guide

27 Pages Posted: 20 Jan 2005 Last revised: 24 Jul 2022

See all articles by N. Gregory Mankiw

N. Gregory Mankiw

Harvard University - Department of Economics; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

Matthew Weinzierl

Harvard University - Department of Economics

Multiple version iconThere are 2 versions of this paper

Date Written: December 2004

Abstract

This paper uses the neoclassical growth model to examine the extent to which a tax cut pays for itself through higher economic growth. The model yields simple expressions for the steady-state feedback effect of a tax cut. The feedback is surprisingly large: for standard parameter values, half of a capital tax cut is self-financing. The paper considers various generalizations of the basic model, including elastic labor supply departures from infinite horizons, and non-neoclassical production settings. It also examines how the steady-state results are modified when one considers the transition path to the steady state.

Suggested Citation

Mankiw, N. Gregory and Weinzierl, Matthew, Dynamic Scoring: A Back-of-The-Envelope Guide (December 2004). NBER Working Paper No. w11000, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=637497

N. Gregory Mankiw (Contact Author)

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Matthew Weinzierl

Harvard University - Department of Economics ( email )

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