Is inflation always bad?

It depends on how it comes about. Cost push inflation, i.e. when the reason is due to higher costs of production and reduced short-run aggregate supply (SRAS), is negative, as the overall output level, and subsequently economic growth - the primary objective - is reduced. However, if it is demand push inflation, then inflation is merely the result of something positive. Increased aggregate demand (AD) due to higher consumption, etc, will cause increased economic growth, and place upwards pressure on the price level, however the negative effect of this may be offset by the potentially higher wages and income associated with economic growth. Also, assuming it remains within 1-3% - the BoE's target range - it is okay.(This would be done with the use of diagrams)

AA

Related Economics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Demonstrate the impact on the UK of a devaluation of the pound


How does a firm's marginal cost and average cost relate to each other? (Microeconomics)


What is the basic Economic problem, and how does Economics as a discipline approach this?


Buyers in the market for iPhones learn that the price of the Samsung Galaxy has increased. Explain how this would shift demand in the market for iPhones.