Background
The concept of a nested hypothesis plays a crucial role in statistical analysis, particularly when analyzing and comparing different econometric models. It is essential when determining if a simpler model (H′) is a special case within a more complex model (H).
Historical Context
The use of nested hypotheses can be traced back to the development of hypothesis testing and statistical methods in the early 20th century, contributing to advancements in econometric theory and methods.
Definitions and Concepts
Nested Hypothesis: A hypothesis (H′) is said to be nested within another hypothesis (H) if the set of conditions satisfied under H′ is a proper subset of the set of conditions satisfied under H. In other words, every scenario that satisfies H′ also satisfies H.
Hypothesis Testing: A statistical method used to decide whether the observed data can support a given hypothesis or if an alternate hypothesis should be considered.
Major Analytical Frameworks
Classical Economics
In classical economics, nested hypotheses might not be explicitly discussed but underpin comparisons of simpler versus more intricate theories of price, supply, and demand.
Neoclassical Economics
Neoclassical economics employs nested hypotheses in econometrics to assess competing models of consumer behavior or market equilibrium, validating or rejecting less complex models.
Keynesian Economics
Keynesians might utilize nested hypotheses in macroeconomic modeling to simplify assumptions about aggregate consumption or investment behavior embedded in broader economic frameworks.
Marxian Economics
Marxian economists can use nested hypotheses to tackle varying levels of assumptions in labor value theories or capitalist exploitation models, offering simpler subcases for complex economic relationships.
Institutional Economics
Institutionalists might apply nested hypotheses to contrast less complicated forms of institutional behavior within wider socio-economic frameworks, isolating specific institutional influences on the economy.
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral economists frequently rely on nested hypotheses to test simplified versions of more detailed behavioral models, often seeding simpler models within comprehensive frameworks of human decision-making.
Post-Keynesian Economics
Post-Keynesians can use nested hypotheses for tests of simplified assumptions in monetary policy models or endogenous money theory within broader dyads of aggregate economic performance.
Austrian Economics
Austrians may compare nested hypotheses within their qualitative frameworks, contrasting simpler propositions encapsulated within the complex web of human actions and market interactions.
Development Economics
Development economists utilize nested hypotheses to scrutinize simpler development indices or proxies within expansive models of economic growth and inequality patterns.
Monetarism
In monetarism, simpler propositions, like the direct influence of money supply on inflation, might be nested within broader frameworks involving varied economic indicators and their interrelations.
Comparative Analysis
Comparing nested hypotheses aids in verifying propositions within broader theoretical or empirical economic models and enables clear delineation between more general and specific aspects of hypotheses.
Case Studies
Case studies involving nested hypotheses typically entail empirical investigation where a simpler economic model is nested in a broader one. Studies frequently involve comparing models using Fisher’s tests or likelihood ratio tests to ascertain the sufficiency of simpler models in capturing economic reality without unnecessary complexity.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Mostly Harmless Econometrics: An Empiricist’s Companion” by Joshua D. Angrist & Jörn-Steffen Pischke
- “Introduction to Econometrics” by James H. Stock & Mark W. Watson
- “Econometric Analysis” by William H. Greene
Related Terms with Definitions
- Hypothesis Testing: A method used to decide whether to reject or fail to reject a specified statistical hypothesis.
- Likelihood Ratio Test: A statistical test used to compare the fit of two nested hypotheses or models.
- F-test: Used in statistical models to determine if a group of variables is jointly significant.
