On The Effects Of Inflation And Relative Price Variability On Output And Unemployment PDF Download

This paper surveys the empirical literature on the benefits of low inflation, emphasizing contributions since 1990. It follows a framework that examines the costs of inflation, or the benefits of price stability, in the context of four themes: inflation creates uncertainty about the future; there are costs of having to cope with inflation; inflation affects equity and fairness; and living with inflation is no answer. The section on each theme begins with a brief summary of points raised in the Bank of Canada's 1990 annual report, where that framework was presented. The empirical literature is reviewed extensively enough to establish a context. This is followed by discussion of those benefits of low inflation that have been quantified in the literature and those that have not; how the literature on the issue has advanced since 1990; and what areas might benefit from more research in the future.