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Phillips Curve Insights
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If inflation rises significantly while unemployment remains low, what underlying economic mechanism is most likely causing this situation according to the Phillips Curve?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Increased aggregate demand leading to higher prices and maintaining low unemployment

B

Decreased aggregate supply causing prices to rise while employment remains unchanged

C

Government intervention reducing inflation without affecting employment

D

A natural rate of unemployment being reached despite rising inflation

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

The Phillips Curve suggests that there is an inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment. This means that when unemployment is low, inflation tends to be higher because more people are working and spending money, which increases demand for goods and services. In this situation, businesses might raise prices because they know consumers have more income to spend. For example, if many people have jobs and are earning good wages, they might buy more cars, leading car manufacturers to increase prices due to high demand. Therefore, the underlying economic mechanism at play is that strong consumer demand, fueled by low unemployment, drives up prices, resulting in higher inflation.

Detailed Explanation

When demand for goods and services goes up, prices tend to rise. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that supply issues cause prices to rise without affecting jobs; This choice implies that the government can lower inflation without affecting jobs.

Key Concepts

Phillips Curve
Inflation and Unemployment Relationship
Aggregate Demand
Topic

Phillips Curve Insights

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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