When autonomous investment increases in a two-sector model, then |
The aggregate demand curve shifts upwards. Output/GDP increases by the same magnitude as the change in investment. Autonomous expenditure increases by the same magnitude as the change in investment. The consumption curve shifts upwards. |
The aggregate demand curve shifts upwards. |
The correct answer is Option (1) → The aggregate demand curve shifts upwards. In a two-sector model (Households + Firms), the components of aggregate demand (AD) are: AD=C+I Where:
When autonomous investment increases, it means investment increases independently of income. This leads to:
This eventually leads to a multiplier effect on income and output. Option 2: Output/GDP increases by the same magnitude as the change in investment.
Option 3: Autonomous expenditure increases by the same magnitude as the change in investment. This statement is also correct. Autonomous investment is a component of autonomous expenditure (A = C̅ + Ī). If autonomous investment increases by a certain amount, then the total autonomous expenditure will increase by that exact amount. However, in the context of typical multiple-choice questions asking for the effect on the model's behavior, the shift in the AD curve is the most suitable answer as it directly sets off the multiplier process. Option 4: The consumption curve shifts upwards. This is incorrect. The consumption curve ($C = \bar C+cY$) shifts upwards only if autonomous consumption ($\bar C$) increases or if there is a change in factors influencing consumption behavior independent of income. An increase in autonomous investment affects the investment component of aggregate demand, not the consumption function itself. |