Background
Discretionary policy refers to a type of economic policy in which decisions regarding the implementation, breadth, and timing of measures are made based on the discretion and judgment of policymakers. This approach contrasts with a rules-based policy, where actions follow a set, pre-determined rule or consistent precedent.
Historical Context
The debate between discretionary policy and rules-based policy has deep roots in economic theory and policy-making. Historically, famous economists like John Maynard Keynes advocated for active government intervention (discretionary policy) during economic downturns, while others like Milton Friedman promoted steady rules-based policies to avoid the pitfalls of short-term planning.
Definitions and Concepts
Discretionary policy allows policymakers the flexibility to adapt their actions to the current state of the economy and other unforeseen circumstances. It introduces an element of human judgment and adaptability into economic management, leveraging current information and evolving dynamics to achieve desired outcomes.
Major Analytical Frameworks
Classical Economics
Classical economists generally favor less governmental intervention in the economy, thereby showing a preference for rules-based policies that foster long-term market equilibrium.
Neoclassical Economics
Neoclassical thought incorporates both rules and discretion, but generally emphasizes predictable rules to maintain an equilibrium state and reduce uncertainty for economic actors.
Keynesian Economics
Keynesian economics is heavily linked to discretionary policy. Keynesians argue that the government should actively manage economic cycles via fiscal and monetary policies to stimulate or cool down the economy as needed.
Marxian Economics
Marxian economics often critiques both discretionary and rules-based policies within a capitalist framework, emphasizing the need for fundamental policy changes to address inequalities and systemic issues.
Institutional Economics
Institutional economists might support discretionary policy as it aligns with the need to cater to unique and specific institutional arrangements that rules-based policies cannot always address.
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral economists would support discretionary policy to correct market and individual behaviors that deviated from rational choices due to psychological biases, as rules alone might not be sufficient.
Post-Keynesian Economics
Post-Keynesians support an even greater role for discretion in economic management, arguing that uncertain and dynamic economic environments require flexible policies adaptable to current situations.
Austrian Economics
Austrian economics generally opposes discretionary policy in favor of more predictable and less interventionist rules-based policies, emphasizing the role of free markets in resource allocation.
Development Economics
In development economics, discretionary policy is often crucial as developing countries face unique challenges that rigid rules cannot address effectively.
Monetarism
Monetarists, such as Milton Friedman, have promoted rules-based policy, specifically in the context of controlling the money supply to maintain economic stability and avoid issues like inflation.
Comparative Analysis
The primary tension between discretionary and rules-based policies revolves around the trade-offs between flexibility and predictability. Rules-based policies can limit the risks of short-term opportunism and time inconsistency but may fall short in reacting to unexpected economic shocks. Discretionary policies offer adaptability and real-time responsiveness but can suffer from issues of credibility and potential short-term exploitation that may compromise long-term goals.
Case Studies
Historical analyses often cite the 1970s stagflation in the U.S. as an example where discretionary policy led to high inflation and unemployment, prompting a shift towards more rules-based policies in subsequent decades.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “A Monetary History of the United States” by Milton Friedman & Anna Schwartz
- “The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money” by John Maynard Keynes
- “Macroeconomics” by N. Gregory Mankiw
Related Terms with Definitions
- Rules-based Policy: A policy framework where decisions follow a pre-announced rule or well-defined precedent.
- Phillips Curve: An economic concept illustrating the inverse relationship between rates of unemployment and rates of inflation.
- Commitment: The extent to which policymakers adhere to their announced policy actions.
- Discretion: The degree of freedom policymakers have to act based on current circumstances.
By understanding the different approaches, merits, and challenges associated with discretionary and rules-based policies, economists and policymakers can better navigate the complex landscape of economic management.
