Study Notes

What are positive statements in Economics?

Level:
A-Level, IB
Board:
AQA, Edexcel, OCR, IB, Eduqas, WJEC

Last updated 13 Jul 2023

Positive statements in economics are statements that describe the world as it is, without making any value judgments. They are based on objective facts, and they can be proven or disproven. Positive statements are often used in economic analysis to describe the behavior of markets, firms, and consumers.

Here are some examples of positive statements in economics:

  • The demand for a good will increase if its price decreases.
  • An increase in the minimum wage will lead to a decrease in employment.
  • A decrease in interest rates will lead to an increase in investment.

These statements are all based on the observation of how markets and consumers behave. They can be tested and verified through empirical research.

Here are some other examples of positive statements in economics used in economic analysis:

  • The unemployment rate is currently 5%.
  • The inflation rate is currently 2%.
  • The stock market is currently at an all-time high.

These statements are all based on the observation of economic data. They can be verified by looking at the data.

It is important to note that positive statements are not always easy to make. There is often no clear right or wrong answer, and different economists may have different interpretations of the data.

Here are some of the key characteristics of positive statements in economics:

  • They are objective: Positive statements are based on objective facts, rather than on personal beliefs or values.
  • They can be tested: Positive statements can be tested and verified through empirical research.
  • They are often used in economic analysis: Positive statements are often used in economic analysis to describe the behavior of markets, firms, and consumers.

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