Question

What are the three main goals of macroeconomics?

Short answer

The three main goals of macroeconomics are: \(1)\) to promote economic growth, which is the increase in overall output of goods and services measured in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), \(2)\) to maintain price stability by ensuring a low and stable rate of inflation, and \(3)\) to achieve full employment, where the economy operates at its maximum level of employment with the number of job seekers approximately equal to the number of job vacancies.

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify the first goal of macroeconomics

The first main goal of macroeconomics is to promote and achieve economic growth. Economic growth is the increase in the overall output of goods and services in an economy, usually measured in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A growing economy tends to raise the standard of living, create jobs, and reduce poverty.

2. Identify the second goal of macroeconomics

The second main goal of macroeconomics is to maintain price stability. Price stability occurs when there is a low and stable rate of inflation in an economy. Inflation is the increase in the general level of prices over time. Central banks typically have a mandate to target a specific inflation rate to ensure the purchasing power of money remains stable and to avoid periods of high inflation or deflation.

3. Identify the third goal of macroeconomics

The third main goal of macroeconomics is to achieve full employment. Full employment is achieved when the number of unemployed people is at a minimum, or when the economy is operating at its maximum level of employment, given the available workforce. This means that the number of job seekers is approximately equal to the number of job vacancies. Full employment leads to higher income levels and reduced poverty, and helps to maximize the economy's potential output.