Introduction to Computable General Equilibrium Models

This book provides an accessible, undergraduate-level introduction to computable general equilibrium (CGE) models, a class of model that has come to play an important role in government policy decisions. The book uses a graphical approach to explain the economic theory that underlies a CGE model, and provides results from simple, small-scale CGE models to illustrate the links between theory and model outcomes. The book includes eleven guided, hands-on exercises that introduce modeling techniques that are applied to real-world economic problems. Students will learn how to integrate their separate fields of economic study into a comprehensive, general equilibrium perspective as they develop their skills as producers or consumers of CGE-based analysis.

Table of Contents:
1. Introduction to computable general equilibrium models; 2. Elements of a computable general equilibrium model; 3. The CGE model database; 4. Final demand in a CGE model; 5. Supply in a CGE model; 6. Factors of production in a CGE model; 7. Trade in a CGE model; 8. Taxes in a CGE model; 9. Regulatory policy analysis in a CGE model; 10. Conclusion: frontiers in CGE modeling.

About the Author :
Mary E. Burfisher is a Senior Education Advisor at the Center for Global Trade Analysis (GTAP) at Purdue University, Indiana and an Adjunct Professor in the Business and Finance program at the University of Maryland University College. Dr Burfisher was a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the United States Naval Academy, Maryland; she spent much of her career as an economist at the United States Department of Agriculture. Dr Burfisher was a GTAP fellow from 2003–10 and received the Quality of Communication Award from the American Agricultural Economics Association. She earned her PhD in economics from the University of Maryland.

Review :
'At a time when globalization is being hotly debated, Mary E. Burfisher provides a valuable introduction to the main tool for assessing the impact of trade policies on the economy. In addition to the economics and data underlying CGE models, the book provides structured exercises so that readers can build and run their own models, contributing much-needed analysis on a contentious issue.' Shantayanan Devarajan, Chief Economist, Middle East and North Africa Region, World Bank 'Mary E. Burfisher is a gifted teacher and superb writer. With this book, she further establishes herself as the pre-eminent guide for those seeking an introduction to CGE analysis. Starting with a model of bicycle supply and demand, the reader's horizons are quickly expanded into an operational framework for policy analysis within an economy-wide framework.' Tom Hertel, Purdue University, Indiana 'CGE modeling is used worldwide to clarify options in many areas including trade, taxation, environment, resources, transportation and immigration. Mary E. Burfisher's book is a comprehensive, well-motivated introduction to this important field.' Peter Dixon, Centre of Policy Studies, Victoria University, Melbourne