📚 Learning Guide
Aggregate Supply and Demand Analysis
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How does a leftward shift in the aggregate supply curve typically affect the economy during a period of cost-push inflation?

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Learning Path
Learning Path

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Decreases the overall price level

B

Increases unemployment

C

Increases the overall price level and decreases output

D

Increases consumer spending

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

A leftward shift in the aggregate supply curve means that the overall supply of goods and services in the economy has decreased. This often happens during cost-push inflation, where rising costs of production, like higher wages or raw material prices, make it more expensive for businesses to produce items. As a result, fewer goods are available in the market, which can lead to higher prices for consumers because demand remains the same or even increases. For example, if oil prices rise sharply, it costs more for transportation and manufacturing, causing businesses to produce less and raise prices. This combination of reduced supply and increased prices can lead to slower economic growth and higher unemployment, creating challenges for both consumers and businesses.

Detailed Explanation

When the aggregate supply curve shifts left, it means that production costs are rising. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that a leftward shift lowers prices; It's a common belief that less output means more unemployment.

Key Concepts

Aggregate Supply Curve
Cost-push Inflation
Topic

Aggregate Supply and Demand Analysis

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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