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Knowledge, Germs and Output

Author

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  • Shouyong Shi

    (Pennsylvania State University)

Abstract
This paper studies the equilibrium and the social optimum in an economy where knowledge diffusion interacts with disease transmission. Knowledge increases productivity and is diffused through learning. A learner chooses the intensities in normal learning, isolated learning and production. Normal learning is more effective than isolated learning but requires a learner to contact a teacher. A higher intensity in normal learning increases a learner's contact rate with a teacher, thereby speeding up both knowledge diffusion and the transmission of an infectious pathogen. An infection reduces productivity and possibly results in death. Calibrating the pathogen to Covid-19, the model shows that the unexpected arrival of the pathogen induces a susceptible learner to adjust the normal learning intensity in a V-shaped pattern over time. Aggregate output also follows V-shaped adjustments. Switching from the equilibrium to the social optimum reduces infections and deaths substantially and increases social welfare. I also examine temporary lockdowns in the equilibrium. (Copyright: Elsevier)

Suggested Citation

  • Shouyong Shi, 2023. "Knowledge, Germs and Output," Review of Economic Dynamics, Elsevier for the Society for Economic Dynamics, vol. 48, pages 297-319, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:red:issued:20-358
    DOI: 10.1016/j.red.2022.06.002
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    Cited by:

    1. Gomes Orlando, 2024. "Economic Growth in the Age of Ubiquitous Threats: How Global Risks are Reshaping Growth Theory," Economics - The Open-Access, Open-Assessment Journal, De Gruyter, vol. 18(1), pages 1-15, January.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Knowledge; Germs; Learning; Covid-19;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E6 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook
    • I3 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty
    • O4 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity

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