Date of Award:
5-2009
Document Type:
Dissertation
Degree Name:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department:
Economics and Finance
Department name when degree awarded
Economics
Committee Chair(s)
Chris Fawson
Committee
Chris Fawson
Committee
Randy Simmons
Committee
Paul Jakus
Committee
Ken Lyon
Committee
Frank Caliendo
Abstract
The theory of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) proposes to answer important questions regarding the connections between economic growth (development) and the environment. The theory postulates the environment need not always suffer as the economy develops, and it has generated strong support and opposition. Rather than attempting to defend or debunk EKC theory, this research challenges a practice engaged in by proponents and opponents alike. Simplifying assumptions are a necessary part of economic analysis, but this research shows that any assumptions may not be universally applicable. Utilizing, in turn, a simple one-good model and then a more complicated two-good model, it is discovered that the competing assumptions utilized by proponents and opponents of the EKC theory may both be valid, depending upon the conditions present in the system being analyzed.
Checksum
bfb2c08c68e53f1dc3e1ef9d52a95dfd
Recommended Citation
Kidd, Jeremy Lynn, "Probing the Mechanics of Environmental Kuznets Curve Theory" (2009). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 260.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/260
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Comments
The theory of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) proposes to answer important questions regarding the connections between economic growth (development) and the environment. The theory postulates the environment need not always suffer as the economy develops, and it has generated strong support and opposition. Rather than attempting to defend or debunk EKC theory, this research challenges a practice engaged in by proponents and opponents alike. Simplifying assumptions are a necessary part of economic analysis, but this research shows that any assumptions may not be universally applicable. Utilizing, in turn, a simple one good model and then a more complicated two good model, it is discovered that the competing assumptions utilized by proponents and opponents of the EKC theory may both be valid, depending upon the conditions present in the system being analyzed.