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A qualitative input-output method to find basic economic structures

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Papers in Regional Science

Abstract.

Structural analysis deals with economic systems as defined by the set of industries and the relationships between them. However, multi-sectoral models are often limited: when studying economic systems empirically it is difficult to distinguish a priori the subset of basic or important relationships between industries. This research note presents a method to find the core of a productive structure by employing the qualitative approach and avoiding exogenous criteria. Results are presented in a graph of relationships that characterise the productive structure as a whole. In effect, the figure provides information concerning the main paths of influence between sectors in the structure, as well as information regarding the complexity of the economic system.

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Correspondence to Fidel Aroche-Reyes.

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Received: 2 January 2001, Accepted: 25 July 2002,

JEL Classification:

C63, C67

Francisco Zarco developed the computing programme employed in this research note. María Eugenia Vera’s assistance was most helpful. I am also grateful to two anonymous referees, who helped enormously to improve the note, as well as to the editor, who made invaluable suggestions for the sake of clarity. The usual disclaimer applies.

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Aroche-Reyes, F. A qualitative input-output method to find basic economic structures. Papers Reg. Sci. 82, 581–590 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10110-003-0149-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10110-003-0149-z

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